Published: September 11, 2024 | Updated: 11th September 2024
Westlands Farm Shop, a family-owned business from Meon Valley, has submitted plans to open its second store in Winchester.
The shop, which would bring a range of fresh, locally sourced produce to the high street, is targeting the former Patisserie Valerie, which closed its doors on New Year’s Day.
The farm shop’s plans have been submitted to Winchester City Council and outline extensive renovations for both the interior and exterior of the building. If approved, Westlands will be the only independent butchery on the high street.
Graham Collett, the owner of Westlands Farm Shop, explained the move: “Our decision to expand into Winchester is driven by the overwhelming support and demand we’ve received from our customers in Wickham.
“We’ve seen a growing interest in high-quality, locally sourced food, and we believe the people of Winchester will appreciate the freshness and authenticity that Westlands Farm Shop brings.”
He also mentioned the community’s desire for an independent butchery: “People we have spoken to say Winchester has been crying out for an independent butcher in the city centre again, and that is what we will be bringing.”
Graham hopes to open the new shop by November, just in time for Christmas: “Our goal is to provide a shopping experience that not only offers fantastic products but also brings people closer to the local farming community.”
Westlands Farm Shop is known for championing sustainable farming in Hampshire, and the Winchester store will continue that tradition by offering customers a farm-to-table shopping experience.
The planned renovations aim to create a welcoming environment that blends the charm of a traditional farm shop with the convenience of its central location.