Test Valley Borough Council has spoken of its disappointment and frustration following the confirmed closure of Powder Monkey in Andover’s Guildhall.
The business, which officially confirmed this week that its Andover venue had permanently closed, had only been operating from the prominent town centre location since October last year.
In a statement issued following the announcement, the council said it was saddened by the outcome and insisted it had supported the business throughout its time in the town.
A spokesperson for Test Valley Borough Council said: “We are deeply disappointed and frustrated by this news, and we have no doubt that residents will feel the same. We have supported Powder Monkey throughout the process, both before and after they opened, to create a vibrant venue. And we’re disappointed it hasn’t been given the chance to succeed.
“We are now working swiftly to explore options. We have said before that this is an excellent location in the town centre, and Andover deserves a business that can provide a fantastic offering and a great service to customers. We have a brilliant programme of events planned for the summer, and the lower Guildhall is a venue with huge potential in the heart of a High Street – with a brand new theatre just around the corner.”
The lower Guildhall site has long been viewed as a key venue within the town centre, particularly due to its central location and proximity to The Lights theatre and upcoming summer events programme.
The closure of Powder Monkey has sparked significant discussion locally, with many residents expressing sadness at seeing another business leave the High Street after such a short period of time.