Flint opticians’ vision brought to life through key government funding
Gordon Elliot, owner and optometrist at Roberts and Polson Opticians, Flint, with Practice Manager, Sue Polson.
Gordon Elliott’s vision for Roberts and Polson Opticians is crystal clear following an eye-catching makeover.
The owner of the Flint-based business saw plans to update the company’s outdated infrastructure and 1980s décor accelerated thanks to funding from Flintshire County Council’s Town Centre Property Improvement Grant (TCPIG).
The opticians, which was established in 1995, was determined to remain on the high street and replaced its former single pane shopfront with double glazed windows to regulate the temperature all year round.
Energy efficiency was further prioritised with the installation of air source heat pumps, reducing both carbon emissions and heating costs.
In partnership with Deeside company A.D.A Shopfitting, the consulting room was expanded through the removal of old stud walls, creating space to accommodate recently acquired high-spec equipment and extra seating for customers.
Seeking a personal touch to the renovations, the opticians designed its own custom-made furniture and cabinetry.
Gordon Elliot, owner and optometrist at Roberts and Polson Opticians, Flint, with Practice Manager, Sue Polson.
Through the Flintshire Town Centre Investment Programme, the TCPIG covered more than 50 per cent of the costs incurred. Funding for the council-run scheme itself has been provided using the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
In addition, the North Wales business has grown its team and now plans to offer sight tests on all five days it’s open.
Roberts and Polson Opticians owner and optometrist Gordon said: “I’ve had aspirations to upgrade the shop for years, so it’s been wonderful to see the changes finally take place.
“Without the help of the TCPIG, the refurbishment would have taken longer to achieve – especially since we had big plans including new ceilings, flooring, and wiring.
“Throughout the process, there has been a real community effort with other businesses on the high street helping support us through the journey, and the positive customer feedback has made it worth all the effort.”
Gordon added: “We are immensely grateful to see our team grow and being able to provide a pleasant work environment through the upgrades has been fantastic.
Exteriors / interiors at Roberts and Polson Opticians, Flint.
“Should we be able to operate five days a week, it would also mean a greater turnover for the business and more opportunities for customers to receive the care they need.
“I think we’ve now got the smartest shop in Flint.”
Jonathan Bates, Flintshire County Council project development officer, said: “Having supported Roberts and Polson throughout the grant application process, it’s been rewarding to see the difference it has made to the firm, and we look forward to seeing the business go from strength to strength.”
Councillor Chris Dolphin, cabinet member for economy, environment and climate, said: “We recognise the importance of empowering local businesses across Flintshire to serve the communities they work within to the best of their abilities.
“With many small and medium sized enterprises facing economically challenging times, grants like the TCPIG and support from the UKSPF make a visible impact on towns across the county by helping improve visitor retention rates and attract talent to strengthen the county’s workforce.”
The Town Centre Investment Programme has received £1,500,432 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.