An Andover coffee shop has been awarded an Independent Retailer Grant from Test Valley Borough Council after opening its doors in the town centre.
Paul Hedges has welcomed customers to Coffee No.78 after an extensive refurbishment to an empty unit in Andover, giving the space a new lease of life and a welcoming feel for customers. He applied for an Independent Retailer Grant from the council, and has received the first instalment of the grant.
Business owner Paul, said: “I am thrilled to have opened this unit and given it a new lease of life. The council is working on redeveloping Andover’s town centre and I am excited for my business to be a part of these changes.
“I’d like to thank the council for their support with my new business.”
St Mary’s ward councillor, Iris Andersen, said: “It is excellent news that we have a new business in the town. We’re seeing more and more people use coffee shops as a meeting point, an office, or for a time of calm. It’s wonderful to see so many independent shops popping up and offering high streets a cosy, welcoming atmosphere.
“I am really pleased that Paul’s new venture is going well – long may it continue.”
As part of the council’s strategy to support Andover and Romsey town centres, the Independent Retailer Grant is available to encourage new independently-owned retailers to take up vacant space.
These funds have become available to the community as a consequence of the council’s prudent investments, careful financial management and the use of the New Homes Bonus.
For more information about the council’s grant schemes, visit www.testvalley.gov.uk
