Cheers all round for new-look businesses

Graham Rawlinson and Julie Evans outside Brown’s No 1

Two Heywood businesses are seeing an increase in trade thanks to a special grant aimed at sprucing up the town centre.

The Property Improvement Programme (PIP), which is delivered by Rochdale Development Agency and funded by New Heart for Heywood has made a big difference to Bridge Street pub, Brown’s No 1 and Gaetano hairdresser on York Street.

Both received grants to revitalise the outdoor appearance of their premises. Owner of Brown’s No 1, Graham Rawlinson revealed that he has seen turnover rise by 25 – 30% since October, which he attributes to the new look.

He said: “We have undergone a huge transformation and the reaction from customers has been extremely positive.  The bland facade has gone and we are sure the new style which includes stained glass windows and blue lights to gently illuminate the bar at night, is helping to attract new people to step inside and see what’s on offer.”

Graham, who has owned the pub for 20 years, received the full grant of £25,000 and also invested around £75,000 on more extensive works and rewiring. Following final inspections, he received his completion certificate this week from Julie Evans of Rochdale Development Agency.

Owner of Gaetano, Caroline Mulligan, has also had a welcome reaction to the shop transformation. She has owned the York Street hairdressers for 18 years and admits the former frontage was out-of-date before she received a £7,000 grant, which she topped up with around £3,000. She said: “It is fantastic; we’ve gone for a full glass front, which is very modern and stylish. The reaction from customers has been really supportive and we’ve seen some new faces since the work has been completed.  I would encourage other businesses to get involved.”

Julie Evans, project officer with Rochdale Development Agency, said: “A visible transformation is gradually taking place in the town centre and a total of 16 businesses have now benefited from improvement grants since the scheme was launched in 2005.  The programme is giving a boost to local companies by encouraging more visitors to shop and do business in the town centre. I am here to give advice to any other interested businesses located within the focus area.”

To find out more contact Julie Evans, Rochdale Development Agency on 01706 691363.