A new nail spa on London Road and a new Italian cafe on Surrey Street
Openings
After more than two years of vacancy, 60-62 London Road has been revitalised from its riot-related damage and is now open as an upmarket nail spa called White Sands. Complimentary wine, hot drinks, and cupcakes are available for customers, and a free gift of a natural skincare gift bag is on offer to the first 100 new clients.
Another opening after a long period of vacancy is Franco's Caffe at 54 Surrey Street. This little Italian cafe serves coffee and tea, cakes, pasta dishes, sandwiches, and cold savouries such as the pea frittata we enjoyed on our visit last week (£1.20 including side salad). Coffee and a croissant can be had for only £2, and hot food starts at around £3.50.
Other openings are H Spring Photography at 6 St George's Walk, a beauty salon called For Him & Her at 248 High Street, and Tanworld tanning salon at 82 South End.
Closures
Britannia at 53-55 North End has closed, as part of the rebranding of Britannia to Co-operative Bank. Services have transferred to the existing Co-op Bank branch at 91 George Street.
Other closures are 4 Feet at 51 North End, Cafe Santa Fe at 201 High Street, Buenos Aires at 299 High Street, and Polskie & I at 308 High Street.
Coming soon
Vael-N-Dine at 62a South End has closed, but is under refurbishment to reopen as a “modern European and Indian” restaurant called Karnavar.
Other news
Richards at 149 North End has had a change of management, and no longer sells newspapers. Instead, it now sells mobile phone accessories as well as cigarettes, chocolate, and cold drinks.