Vercelli restaurant situated in Hexham’s Conservation Area has recently had its frontage improved as part of the High Streets Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) programme. 
 

The Italian restaurant on Priestpopple was awarded £26,500 from Northumberland County Council in partnership with Historic England to improve the frontage and signage. 

The aim of the HSHAZ scheme is to revitalise the town’s historic centre making it a more attractive, engaging and vibrant place for people to live, work, invest and visit. 

The work to the restaurant included the installation of new bi-fold doors and a canopy, new signage and paint work that is in-keeping with the heritage of the town. 

Sue & Jordan Dodwell, managers at Vercelli are thrilled with the results: “It has made a huge difference to the front of Vercelli making it a more welcoming environment for customers, especially during the summer months.” 

“We were fortunate enough to receive 70% funding from Northumberland County council to play our part in helping to revitalise Hexham's historic town centre whilst at the same time giving our business a fresh new look.” 

Northumberland County Councillor, Wojciech Ploszaj, cabinet member for Business added: 

“The building is a grade II listed building dating from 1776 and occupies a prominent position within the Hexham Conservation Area. Its improvement, along with the neighbouring Coach and Horses, which has recently been completed, brings a significant upgrade to the character and appearance of Priestpopple. 

“The quality work that has been undertaken at Vercelli’s will, I am sure, drive increased footfall to the restaurant and in turn benefit the business.” 

Hexham High Streets Heritage Action Zone is part of a £95 million government-funded programme led by Historic England. It’s designed to secure lasting improvements and rejuvenate historic high streets. 

Jules Brown, Historic Places Adviser at Historic England, said: 

 “We’re really pleased to be working with local partners to breathe new life into Hexham’s historic town centre through the High Streets Heritage Action Zone scheme. 

 “Some buildings in the area are vacant and others are run-down, but giving shop fronts a lift and restoring their historic character like that of Vercelli restaurant can help to create a high street that is attractive and appealing to locals and visitors.” 

 

The work began this summer with the work completed by Dodwell Brothers LTD.