Street celebrates a new lease of life (From Free Press Series)

Street celebrates a new lease of life

TWO years ago, almost half its shops were empty or boarded up. Now, Blaenavon's Broad Street is transformed, with almost all the shops open or at least renovated and ready to open.

The latest batch of new shops marks the latest step in the town's economic regeneration which has come on the back of World Heritage Status and the Booktown.

Kath Thomas, Torfaen council's marketing manager, said: "It's a real success story and it's ongoing.

"There are just a handful of empty units now, the vast majority look great. Most of the still-empty ones are just waiting for new shop fronts."

Some of the new shops include; l An e-bay listing shop, where you can go to list items you want to sell on the popular auction site.

It's run by booktown founder James Hanna and Keith Dennis. They will photograph, write a description and do everything necessary to attract the best on-line price for your second hand goods. Items can also be left there on show where people could come in and buy them rather than bidding online.

Liptons tearooms is under new management, offering all the regulars plus Tunisian food.

The Dog House - dog grooming service.