Shop owner explains why Holmfirth is 'cool place to be' after move

Shop owner Nichola Radcliffe has committed her future to Holmfirth before declaring "it's a great place to be and has lots of exciting new places popping up".

Nichola owns personalised gift shop Nellie's Keepsake Co. and has just moved into bigger and better premises in Holmfirth. Her business began life in her parents' garage but is now on the main Huddersfield Road in the centre of Holmfirth.

She described footfall in Huddersfield Road as 'incredible' and said new businesses, including bars and a new florist and cheese shop, were springing up. Her gift shop is open seven days at week at present.

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Nichola prefers to look on the bright side and says "positivity breeds positivity". Her comments follow recent concerns expressed by other retailers about the future of Holmfirth's high street, and a drop in takings.

"I think Holmfirth is fantastic with its bars and restaurants and the Picturedrome (music venue) which bring so many people to the town. It's a cool place to be."

She understands at least two new businesses are about to open in Holmfirth, including a florist and a cheese shop. And she has noticed lots of visitors to Holmfirth from as far away as Manchester and Sheffield. "They are here for a day out," she says.

"I do feel that the food places and bars are bringing people in for the weekend - they are coming and shopping. I have heard comments (from customers) saying 'what a beautiful town' who are happy to see so many independent shops."

Her partner, Tom Sullivan, is equally enthusiastic about Holmfirth. He said: "It’s a great little town full of independent businesses. It’s been picking up since the move as we are now on the high street and getting more footfall.

"Lots of great new businesses have opened including So Dough (pizzeria) and Coopers Yard (street food and bars)." Tom added: "Things are looking good for Holmfirth at the moment."

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