Success on the menu for new wine bar
A new cocktail bar serving brunch in Andover’s Bridge Street has been given its first instalment of a £1,000 Independent Retailers Grant.
Ricky Pledge, who has launched ‘ The SP’ , has been given £500 of the grant from Test Valley Borough Council.
The idea for the bar was to cater for the growing number of working professionals who have moved into the town after moving to Andover from London several years ago. The bar opened its doors earlier this month.
Ricky said: “There is a lot of potential in Andover and that’s why I'm extremely pleased the council has supported this business.
“A lot of our friends we have made here are similar to us in that we want to see Andover progress and we’re hopeful that we can add a little bit extra to that.”
Ward councillor, Iris Andersen, said: “I’m looking forward to seeing Ricky's business grow into an important part of our community.
“It’s always fantastic to see people wanting to invest further into our borough and I wish him every success in seeing the business blossom.”
Recipients of the £1,000 grant first receive £500 after three months of trading and a further £500 six months later. To be eligible for the grant, new or existing independent businesses must occupy a town centre ground floor unit which has been vacant for at least one month.
Qualifying businesses include shops, restaurants and cafes. These funds have become available to the community as a consequence of the council’s prudent investments, financial management and use of the New Homes Bonus.