Back to the future as historic new shop fronts unveiled

Published on 31 August 2023

The transformation of historic buildings in Buxton town centre is gathering pace as two restored shop fronts are unveiled on Spring Gardens.

Working in partnership with business owners, High Peak Borough Council and Historic England are celebrating the successful restoration of neighbouring properties, Fitzgerald's Bakery and Ponden Homes, which have been funded through the High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ).

Grant funding of more than £350,000 was awarded to the businesses in November to support the reinstatement of traditional shop fronts based on historic photographs of the shops.

Works also included masonry repairs and repointing and new bay windows at Ponden Homes. The owners of both properties have also taken the opportunity to carry out additional repairs to the traditional windows on the upper floors.

Councillor Damien Greenhalgh, Deputy Leader and Executive Councillor for Regeneration, Tourism and Leisure, said: "These shop fronts look fantastic. It's great to see this funding making such a difference to businesses that have been in Spring Gardens for many years.

"This investment we're making through both the Heritage Action Zone and the Future High Streets Fund will ensure that Buxton town centre is a vibrant, attractive place which works for residents and businesses and attracts visitors.

"Schemes like these at Fitzgerald's and Ponden Homes show what can be achieved. They have real presence on the street and make a big visual contribution to achieving the Council's vision of ensuring that the commercial centre of Buxton matches the rich heritage for which the town is famous."

Both shops have been a key feature of the town centre for a number of years. Fitzgerald's is a traditional family bakers producing high quality artisan bread, pies, pastries and cakes fresh from their on-site bakery.

Ponden Homes has long been valued by customers for its homewear and interiors including quality curtains, bedding and furniture.

Historic England Team Leader, Tim Allen, said: "Historic England is delighted to be working with High Peak Borough Council and local businesses through the Buxton High Street Heritage Action Zone.

"Ponden Homes and Fitzgerald's are great businesses at the heart of Spring Gardens and the HSHAZ investment is helping to bring these historic buildings back to their former glory.

"Historic England understands how incredibly important local businesses are to communities. The ongoing work around Spring Gardens through the UK Government's HSHAZ and Future High Street schemes will help to ensure Buxton is providing great places to shop, work and socialise for generations to come."