The Andover Tap awarded frontage grant from council to improve accessibility and outdoor space
The Andover Tap, located on Winchester Street, Andover, has been awarded an £8,300 Andover Town Centre Frontage Grant from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). The funding went towards re-laying the pub’s patio and cleaning and repairing its pergola, creating a safer and more welcoming outdoor space for customers.
The improvements will address long-standing accessibility issues, as the patio had become extremely uneven and challenging for those using pushchairs or wheelchairs.
The Andover Tap occupies a building steeped in history, dating back to 1730 when it was known as The Coopers Arms. It once stood alongside The Masons Arms, a neighbouring pub that has since been demolished. Tim Abram and Paula Grant have just celebrated 4 years at the premises - they took over the property in 2021. At that stage it had not been a pub since The Lamb closed in 2014. Since then, they have transformed the site into a vibrant hub, home to Wessex Spirits, The Gin Palace, and The Andover Tap.
Paula Grant, Proprietor, said: “We were delighted to receive the grant; we could not have afforded to make the improvements without it. We’ll make great use of the patio this year with events including BBQs, a paella night, a Ghurka Messing and International Women’s Day.”
Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North said: “We’re pleased to support local businesses like The Andover Tap through the Frontage Grant scheme. These improvements will not only make the venue more accessible but also help preserve its historic character and strengthen Andover’s town centre as a welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike.”
The Andover Town Centre and High St Shop and Frontage Grant was developed by TVBC in collaboration with the Andover BID and Andover Town Council. There are currently 13 grants in the pipeline, showing strong interest from local businesses. Each project is led by the business, with the grant supporting improvements to enhance Andover town centre. This aligns with the wider regeneration plans for Andover, that include the new theatre and riverside park, aiming to increase footfall, supporting local businesses and helping to boost the local economy.
The town centre grants are funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The UK Shared Prosperity Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus