Owner of UK’s first capybara cafe addresses rumours

Jemma Aldridge wants to launch the business near her home in Toftwood and has been documenting the project on social media.

It has generated significant interest online, including from the local council which took the unusual step of posting a message saying it had not received any applications for such a venture to launch in the district.

This saw some cast doubts on the scheme, as it also emerged Ms Aldridge had not yet secured land, planning permission, or the animals that are integral to the attraction.

She has attempted to address some of the confusion surrounding her project with a new post online.

She said she had made a “financial commitment” to two capybaras, which she has already named Clover and Sweet Pea. She expects the animals to be born this winter.

Jemma Aldridge has tried to dispel rumours about the new business (Image: The Capybara Cafe) Ms Aldridge has also clarified that a patch of land she had considered in Toftwood had been deemed unsuitable for the animals and the business could now be opening “anywhere” in Norfolk.

Ms Aldridge has stressed that her business idea remains in the early stages and she will seek the required planning permission, licences, and acquire the animals themselves after she has found an appropriate site. 

At this stage, she does not have planning permission or a licence to keep or display the animals.

Breckland Council said it would consider any application “in accordance with national legislation and guidance” but has not received one yet. 

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Capybaras are the biggest rodent in the world (Image: Colin Finch) Ms Aldridge still hopes to open the business near Dereham, to be close to home, but said in response to Breckland Council that a planning application would not necessarily be lodged in the district. 

The rodents are closely related to guinea pigs and are found throughout northern and central South America.

There is already a line of merchandise for the business (Image: The Capybara Cafe) Ms Aldridge has already launched a line of merchandise, including scrunchies, t-shirts and backpacks, in the hopes of raising funds for the business. 

She said: “I am very much still in talks with the council and going full steam ahead.”