BROMSGROVE residents can flock to open air restaurants and bars this weekend as the new BirdBox opens for business.

Throughout August the pop-up space, near Waitrose, will support local independent food and beverage businesses and, going forward, also host outside workshops, small events and well-being activities as part of its ongoing and changing programme.

It has been created by North Worcestershire Economic Development and Regeneration (NWEDR) on behalf of Bromsgrove District Council as a result of a complete makeover of the site previously occupied by the Market Hall.

From 1pm on Friday, and over the weekend, visitors can enjoy food from Ollie’s Eatery, Shimla Peppers, Heavenly Pizza and pick up a beverage from Bayleys and the Little Ale House.

Extra tables and chairs, placed with social distancing in mind, hand sanitisers and Portaloos will also be available.

Bromsgrove District Council Leader Karen May said: “Our local independent businesses have suffered during the Coronavirus pandemic and even now, due to lack of space to comply with social distancing, they are unable to open.

“We have supported businesses during this pandemic by administering Government grants and now are offering further support, as part of our Recovery Strategy, by providing a space for our hospitality industry to operate.”

The BirdBox is licensed to open from 12pm till 11pm Friday to Wednesday as the Council looks to also support the Eat Out To Help Out scheme.

Businesses are invited to get in touch to occupy the space which currently is free to hire as part of recovery measures.

Cllr Karen May added: “I am delighted to see the BirdBox open for business. As well as playing a part in the town’s future, it is an important part of our heritage.

"If you look up, at the buildings around this area, you will see little wooden structures which look like birdboxes, and this was the inspiration for the name.

“Although slightly delayed by the global pandemic, the Birdbox has opened in time to offer a vital lifeline to the businesses.

“In the future we want fledgling businesses to fly here and hope that local independent businesses, groups and organisations, consider how they can make the most of the space and encourage flocks of visitors to enjoy community events and initiatives.

“This is another step in our plans to create a better Bromsgrove where everyone can work, live and visit.”

Business who are interested in setting up in the BirdBox can register their interest by emailing info@nwedr.org.uk or calling 01562 732192.

As the Council wishes to support the recovery from the Covid-19 Pandemic there is no booking fee for the spaces at present.