Newly-opened Bromyard business is set to ‘clean up’ the town’s ailing retail image after opening it’s doors to the public last month.
The Bromyard Launderette, which is located on the town’s Broad Street, has enjoyed a steady flow of customers since it opened for business on Saturday, May 24.
The shop, which is being run by owners Roy and Amanda Harris, is offering several extensions to traditional services.
“We do self-service washing, dry cleaning, shoe repairs, sewing alterations and we can accommodate duvets and horse rugs, said Amanda.
“We’re also hoping to do a collection and delivery service in a few months.” she added.
The previous occupants of the premises were forced to close in February, the latest in a list of closures that heightened fears that the retail trade in the town was on the verge of extinction.
But some have predicted that the shop’s re-opening is the signal for a fightback from smaller retailers against the “credit crunch.”
“It was a business opportunity,” said Amanda. “We already have a business in the town and we saw it as an opportunity.”
“It was going to be missed when it closed so we’re pleased that we could bring it back.”
“We have done out the new shop and completely refurbished it. I think if you invest in something and work hard you get that investment back. Time will tell but I think it’s a good thing for the town.”
Bromyard Chamber of Commerce chairman Brian Johnson said the shop’s opening could be the first of several positive developments for the town centre.
“It’s desperately important and it’s going to help Bromyard, we wish them every success,” he said. “Anything like this is good for Bromyard, the launderette will bring people into the town.”
Concerns still exist however about the lack of car parking in Bromyard and is something which the town council has actively sought to protect with their purchase of the council office complex, which includes the adjacent car park.
