MALVERN’S economy is set to receive a boost with seven new businesses arriving to the town including a new restaurant and bar.

Seven new businesses are either set to open or have opened in the town centre including a new bar and restaurant The Watercure, which will open up in the old Natwest Bank unit.

Other shops set to open include vintage clothing store The Reclaimers and Blackbird, which specialises in children’s goods, homeware and flowers.

The Water Cure was given planning permission in March last year, with a further application being submitted to allow it to serve alcohol and play live music.

The bar is the brainchild of Malvern businessman Mike Clarke, who said at the time he wanted it to be the type of venue which is not currently available in the town.

He said: "Our proposal is to convert the ground floor of the building into a stunning restaurant and bar, doing justice to its external appearance.

READ MORE: Plans for Water Cure bar and restaurant in Malvern

"We aim to create a type of venue which is currently unavailable in Malvern; one which will serve the interests of both residents and visitors.

"The emphasis will be on providing good quality, healthy food and drinks, with exceptional customer service."

Other businesses to open include Tina Iacovelli, which sells clothes and accessories, Bespoke Hair Company, The One Nail Bar and Heidi’s Treasure Trove.

Also confirmed are two businesses relocating from Church Street and Malvern Link to the former Brays Department Store.

Cllr Sarah Rouse, leader of Malvern Hills District Council, said:"The fact we have businesses opening up and filing empty units, when other areas are watching shops sadly close their doors, is a sign of confidence in our district and the high street.

"We are doing everything we can to support our traders, as well as to give people confidence to return to our town and district centres, and discover the many unique and wonderful businesses there are to explore."

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Elsewhere in the Malvern district, The Stichery and Ginger and Pickles Traditional Toys in Upton-upon-Severn and Hodges Hair Barber Shop in Poolbrook, Malvern, have all opened in recent times.

Residents can buy two-hour permits which will allow them to park for two hours, in any four hour period, in any council owned car park.

They cost £25 and if people buy them during August, they will get 15 months for the price of 12.

They can be bought online at www.malvernhills.gov.uk/parking

In addition, Sophie Jackson has been appointed as a dedicated Town Centre Recovery Officer to work with businesses and on promotional campaigns, to encourage people to support their local traders.

Public hand sanitiser points are being installed across the district to help keep people safe while out and about, and pavement licences are available for businesses to apply for outdoor dining.