A VACANT Winchester city centre premises is being brought back into use after a partnership was agreed between two businesses.

Old Post Office is set to become The Bike Hub at Open House Deli, and will become the latest site to be given a new lease of life under the Silver Hill 2 scheme, officially known as the Central Winchester Regeneration project.

From January, the building on Middle Brook Street will be used jointly by Bespoke Biking, who will keep their current unit in The Brooks Shopping Centre, and Open House Deli which currently operates in Winchester’s street market.

The announcement comes as both firms were looking to expand but were unable to find somewhere that fitted their requirements or budget.

City council leader Cllr Caroline Horrill said: “We are thrilled that such a vibrant and exciting partnership has been formed between two local entrepreneurs and that they will become part of the Central Winchester Regeneration family. We’re committed to developing our existing buildings and refurbishing them to provide businesses with the space they need.

“The Bike Hub at Open House Deli is a unique and exciting offering to the people of Winchester. The services they already provide for people are second to none and I am very much looking forward to seeing them come together in this fantastic location in the heart of the city.

The new outlet will offer a deli serving food and drinks, a workspace and hub for all things cycling, including repairs, a shop, bike hire, secure storage space for cyclists’ own bicycles and bike maintenance classes.

There will also be a specific seating area where people will be encouraged not to open their laptops or phones.

Rebecca Smith, who runs Open House Deli, said: “We are currently refurbishing the space to make something really special for people in Winchester. The council has been a really supportive landlord – they have been very encouraging and shared our vision.”

Heather Evans, who runs Bespoke Biking, added: “We know that good food and cycling are popular with local people and visitors to the city, so we are really excited to bring this new and fresh space to Winchester.”