The Andover Tap pub received a grant to improve outdoor area

The Andover Tap, in Winchester Street, Andover, received an £8,300 Andover Town Centre Frontage Grant funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

The funding supported major upgrades to the pub’s outdoor area, including relaying the patio and cleaning and repairing its pergola.

Tim Abram and Paula Grant, proprietors of the Andover Tap. (Image: Test Valley Borough Council)

Paula Grant, proprietor of The Andover Tap, said: "We were delighted to receive the grant; we could not have afforded to make the improvements without it."

The improvements will address long-standing accessibility issues, as the patio had become extremely uneven and challenging for those using pushchairs or wheelchairs.

Ms Grant said: "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."

The Andover Tap sits in a building rich with history, dating back to 1730 when it known as The Coopers Arms.

Tim Abram and Paula Grant 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 it into a lively destination featuring Wessex Spirits, The Gin Palace and The Andover Tap.

Cllr Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, 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 scheme was developed by Test Valley Borough Council in partnership with Andover BID and Andover Town Council. 

There are currently 13 grants in the pipeline.

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.

More information about the fund is available at gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus.