Cllr Iris Anderson and Becky McDonald cheque presentation
Independent Retailer Grant success adds the finishing touch to new hair and beauty salon
A new Andover hair and beauty salon called ‘Finishing Touch Hair and Beauty’ has scooped a £1,000 Independent Retailer Grant from Test Valley Borough Council.
Becky McDonald, who has a level two qualification in hair and beauty, launched the business located at 2C Union Street in 2020 after she decided to branch out on her own having worked at another local hair and beauty provider for six years.
Becky said “After looking for my own premises, I found this available unit on Union Street and it was perfect. I now have a team of professionals, and as well as being hair and colour specialists, we offer treatments with a holistic therapist and a nail technician. It is great news that my application for the Independent Retailer Grant has been accepted.”
Recipients of the £1,000 grant 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.
St Mary’s ward councillor, Iris Anderson, who recently presented the first £500 cheque to Becky, said: “The grant schemes are a great opportunity for those wishing to set up new businesses in Test Valley. I am delighted that Rebecca has been successful in her grant application and wish her every success.”
These funds have become available to the community as a consequence of the council’s prudent investments, financial management and the use of the New Homes Bonus.