AN EMPTY building which was once the home of a big name bank in Upton has been given a new lease of life after it was converted into a new shop.
The High Street building, formerly HSBC, could become a money-spinner for entrepreneur Elisabeth Drake who recently celebrated its opening in the town with her new staff.
The café has been named after Elisabeth’s brother, Henry, and sells antiques and history books as well as offering food. The building had stood empty for a number of years, The Observer understands.
West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin visited the shop on Friday (June 3) and took time to chat with two pupils, Helena Dixon and Jess Crook, who were enjoying their very first day of work while completing their exams at Hanley Castle High School.
Mrs Baldwin said: “I know everyone is pleased to see the old bank building come back to life in such a wonderful way and I wish Elisabeth luck as she takes on this challenge.
“Tourism is a vital part of the local economy and it’s great to see new facilities popping up to offer a great welcome to our visitors as well as a very useful gathering place for local people. The renovation is beautifully done and the café also offers free superfast WiFi.
“Some of the funding came from the Local Enterprise Partnership which offers grants to bring redundant buildings back into use and this could not be a better example of how a small injection of cash can benefit the wider community with a new venue and new jobs.”
