BUSINESS owners in one of the oldest areas of Plymouth have said that the cost of rates, rent and stock is why so many retail units are remaining empty - often for years.
Entrepreneurs in Whimple Street - across the St Andrew's Cross roundabout from Old Town Street have worked hard to establish themselves in one of the most potentially lucrative areas of the city, but they say that the cost of getting into business is why so many units in the city are remaining empty, including the large premises which formerly housed Host Galleries.
The art gallery closed in 2022, citing the cost of living, and has remained empty since despite having an enviable location.
The area boasts an eclectic mix of businesses, from hair and beauty salons to an off licence and a highly-rated wine bar and bistro, The Chancel.
In 2021, Lei Turner added her own venture to that mix of businesses The Ivory Lounge bridal shop (pictured right). Previously a 'lockdown project' for the 45-year-old, she set up the business together with her husband, Mitch, and they are now in the running for a national award.
The Ivory Lounge has made it through to the finals in what is widely known as the 'Oscars of the bridal industry. The bridal boutique is in the running for the 'customer services of the year' category at Bridal Buyer Awards UK 2024.
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Denne historien er fra March 19, 2024-utgaven av The Herald.
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Citizens Assembly would be better than a mayor
SO Australian Hedge Fund manager Angus Forbes has raised a petition of 13,000-odd votes in favour of another referendum to ask if Plymouth should have an elected Mayor.
MODERN LIVING
This one-off, thoughtfully-designed modern home lies in the Mannamead area of Plymouth. Bunker House is a striking home of over 2,000 sq ft of accommodation.
Blow for Chancellor as borrowing surges
CHANCELLOR Rachel Reeves is facing further pressure over Britain's public finances after official figures showed a bigger-than-expected surge in Government borrowing last month, to nearly £18 billion.
EERDHUIJZEN DEAL AGREED
PILGRIMS SET TO SIGN DEFENDER FROM SPARTA ROTTERDAM
Awful Argyle in the hands of
THERE was a huge gulf in class between bottom-of-the-table Plymouth Argyle and promotion-chasing Burnley as Miron Muslic's third game as the Pilgrims' head coach ended in a 5-0 thrashing at Home Park.
Third man is arrested
IN RELATION TO SERIOUS ASSAULT
Referendum could be held over elected mayor
SIGNATURES COULD TRIGGER VOTE AS EARLY AS THIS MAY
Griffiths secures Shopfitters' draw with a maximum
SHOPFITTING by SWS A and Leaders Molyneux Associates A played out a draw in Division One with a maximum from SWS's Mike Griffiths securing the draw.
Developers turn profit from renovation of mill
SAM AND CARLA MET WHILE WALKING DOGS IN THE PARK
In a spin
FINDS OUT SOME OF THE SURPRISING THINGS YOU CAN CLEAN IN YOUR WASHING MACHINE
