Unbridled success for new boutique store
A new boutique has benefitted from an Independent Retailer Grant from Test Valley Borough Council after occupying a unit that had remained empty in Andover town centre for many months.
Lindy Darmanin opened the doors to her new Lindy’s Boutique business back in April after spotting a gap in the bridal market. Having been looking for a wedding dress herself, Lindy was drawn to a business in Southampton and decided that there was an opportunity more locally to Andover.
Lindy opened the refurbished unit in Waterloo Court, earlier this year and has now been given the first £500 instalment of her grant from the council.
Lindy said: “I’m very excited to see what the next few months hold in the heart of Andover. I run a catering business on Walworth Business Park, so I knew how supportive the council would be in helping me get this new venture off the ground.”
St Mary’s ward councillor, Iris Andersen, said: “Lindy has shown fantastic initiative in getting this off the ground off the back of her own experience. She already has many links around the borough so I’m certain this will be a success and I wish her all the very best!”
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.