In 2023, Havant Borough Council launched the Vacant Shop Scheme, an initiative set to bring footfall back to the area following the shift in shopping habits and the decline of many high street brands, with a focus on attracting businesses that will actively draw people into the town centre.
Five businesses were successful in gaining funding to assist them in bringing their business to Waterlooville to help bring vacant units back into use.
The five new independent businesses were awarded a share of £140,000 of funding, supported by UK Government and Havant Borough Council, to assist them in bringing a range of services, entertainment, and wellness establishments to Waterlooville.
A role-play café for children, dog groomers, and an all-day modern and vibrant establishment serving food and entertainment were all part of the agreed vacant shop scheme.
The grants were used for significant visual or physical improvements to the frontline business operations for:
Olivia May, one of the Directors from Babyccinos talked about what the Vacant Shop Scheme meant to her business. She said “As two mums raised in Waterlooville, we have been working towards launching our business, Babyccinos Play café.
“Being awarded this grant under the Waterlooville Vacant Shop Scheme has given us the opportunity to open our facility in a far more accessible location, right in the heart of Waterlooville.
“We are grateful for the assistance of the council as the grant will ensure that local families have a safe and engaging social hub to visit when in the town.”
From Barbers Beauty Paws dog groomers, Steph Barnes added “This grant has been life-changing. I looked into getting a shop at the beginning of the year and after looking at funds, I couldn't afford it, so I put a pin in the shop idea.
“Getting this grant confirmed meant that not only could I get a shop ready for trading, but it also meant I could start building my business up and have people working in my shop. This has always wanted to be my next step in my career and it has now been possible with this grant and I can't thank everyone enough!"
Liam Howes, Director of the role-play café also spoke about his support of the scheme and said, “Without the support of the grant from Havant borough council, our dream of bringing a fun new family hub to our community would not have been possible financially. It has enabled us to have the opportunity to bring somewhere fresh and exciting for families which will contribute to bringing our town centre back to life again.”
In addition to the Vacant Shop Scheme, Havant Borough Council also helped establish the Waterlooville Business Association. A mix of businesses in the town centre that meet once a month to discuss ideas, events and projects as a group.