Mooch given fresh new look with Andover Town Centre Frontage Grant
A much-loved independent Andover business has been given a fresh new look thanks to support from Test Valley Borough Council's Andover Town Centre Frontage Grant.
Founded by Georgina Roberts in 2004, Mooch has been part of Andover's independent retail scene for more than 20 years. Located on Bridge Street at the lower end of the High Street, the shop has built a loyal customer base through its distinctive collection of gifts, homewares and accessories, along with its commitment to friendly customer service and a welcoming shopping experience.
Over the years, Mooch has become something of an institution in the town centre. Its creative seasonal window displays regularly catch the eye of shoppers and have earned recognition through local awards. The business's unique personality, sense of humour and strong connection to the local community have all contributed to its long-standing success.
To help maintain and enhance the appearance of the premises, Georgina Roberts was awarded an Andover Town Centre Frontage Grant of £1,293.75. The funding has contributed towards repainting and refreshing the shop frontage, windows and signage, helping ensure Mooch continues to make a positive contribution to the appearance and vibrancy of Andover town centre.
Georgina Roberts, owner of Mooch, said: "We are incredibly grateful to Test Valley Borough Council for the Andover Town Centre grant which has allowed us to transform our shop front. This vital funding doesn't just support independent businesses like ours—it breathes new life into the high street, creating a more vibrant and welcoming environment for everyone. Mooch are thrilled to play our part in making Andover a beautiful, thriving destination for residents and visitors alike."
Councillor Phil North, Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, said: "Independent businesses like Mooch are at the heart of what makes Andover town centre such a special place. For more than two decades, Georgina and her team have created a unique shopping experience that is valued by residents and visitors alike. Through the Frontage Grant scheme, we are helping local businesses invest in their premises, improve the appearance of the town centre and support the wider regeneration of Andover. The improvements at Mooch are a fantastic example of how relatively small changes can make a real difference to the look and feel of our high streets."
The Andover Town Centre and High St Shop and Frontage Grant was developed by TVBC in collaboration with Andover BID and Andover Town Council. Each project is led by the business, with the grant supporting improvements to enhance Andover town centre. This aligns with the wider regeneration plans for Andover, including the new theatre and riverside park, aiming to increase footfall, support local businesses and help boost the local economy. These town centre grants are funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The UK Shared Prosperity Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK by investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.