Shoppers in Nottingham have said what they’d like to see replace a successfully run business which is now coming to an end after over 50 years with its current owners. Many people hope the building doesn’t stay empty for too long.
It is thought the James Bride shop can trace its history back as far as 160 years in the same trade. It is located at 31 Pelham Street in the city centre. According to an online listing, the owners are now retiring. Many people recognised that the shop had been there for many years and said they would be sad to see it go.
Nottinghamshire Live spoke to many people in the city centre about what their ambitions for the new store could be. 65-year-old Ted Leaf, now retired from Carlton, said he would like to see something creative.
He said: “Ever since I’ve retired, my wife and I have taken up many new hobbies. We do arts and crafts, have joined walking groups and go to book clubs. I’d like to see something creative. I’ve tried pottery once before and quite liked it so perhaps a nice pottery store where you can sit in and have coffee too.
“Hockley is known to be very quirky and the young people seem to like it so I’m guessing it may turn into a restaurant or another independent clothing store. So long as the building doesn’t stay empty for too long, I’ve noticed that Nottingham has many abandoned buildings.”
The bridal shop is on the market for £39,995. The store sold many things including designer gowns, shoes, handbags, tiaras and veils.
24-year-old Luke Pearson, an IT support worker who lives in the city centre, said he would welcome most things.
He said: “I like Hockley, I come here often. I like the vibe of the Waterstones cafe, something like a coffee shop where you can browse books is something for all ages. I’ve lived in Nottingham all my life and this shop is one where you don’t notice it but you know it’s always been there if that makes sense. In the coming months, I’ll look forward to seeing what it turns into.”
Seventeen-year-old Lucas Wright is a college student from St Ann’s. The business student doesn’t mind what the store turns into.
He said: “I’d like to see a food shop, maybe something vegan. If not, then a music shop or something like that to support local independent businesses and artists.”
Sylvia Thorpe, from West Bridgford and retired, told Nottinghamshire Live she thinks that a similar shop may go down well.
The 78-year-old said: “I have three granddaughters, one has just had her prom and had to go all the way to London for her dress. A prom dress shop may go down well for young girls finishing school. This bridal wear shop has been here for many years, I had never gone there before to look around but I’m guessing they did very well. I wish the owner good luck in whatever they choose to do next.”
