Art-deco store brings a touch of class to town (From Free Press Series)

Art-deco store brings a touch of class to town

AFTER ten years lying dormant, one of Pontypool's most prominent buildings has finally opened its doors again.

The three-story art deco building, formerly occupied by Hyper Value, has been given a new lease of life by furniture company Bed Maker and brought a new vitality to the town centre. Mr Riaz Khan the shop manager said since they opened the store just two days after Christmas business has been "going really well."

"We are really pleased with the reception that we have had from the people of Pontypool, they have made us welcome and have been very friendly. We are optimistic about the future of the business here because there is no competition in our field and we can provide quality furniture at good prices," he said.

The former Hyper Value building had been an eyesore at the entrance to Pontypool town shopping area since the bargain store pulled out of the town.

The run-down building remained empty and boarded up for ten years before Bed Maker bought it last year.

Now the company are firmly in place with quality, reasonably-priced beds for sale. They are also set to branch out and use the second floor of the premises for Italian furniture.

Other local business people in the town have welcomed the new owners and are optimistic about what it means for the town's image.

Bread of Heaven caf owner Mark Gregory said: "It's good that somebody has moved in there and it's good to see the lights on and stock in the showroom."