A new business has moved into a landmark building in Welshpool that has stood empty for several years.

Karen Geddes, owner of Ty Hardd Fashion Shop, has moved into The Old Coach Chambers, a Grade II-listed former pub on Church Street opposite the Royal Oak Hotel.

Having been based in Llanidloes for several years, the curtain making business moved into a Welshpool premises by renting the space inside the Old Coach Chambers from the property's new owner after a quick turnaround for preparing the building.

On finally moving in, Ms Geddes said: “I’d been looking at other premises as I knew we’d be living in the area and it would be nicer to have the business based somewhere closer.

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“I’m a little sad to be leaving Llanidloes, but this is such a lovely building, right in the heart of town, with interesting history and with plenty of character.

“It’s not a traditional shopfront kind of location but that wasn’t what I was looking for. I like the idea of a building that’s spacious and nice looking that I can run things from.

“I’ve been trading for 12 years but lived in Welshpool when I was eight years old, so moving back here with the business feels like a full circle moment.

(Image: Josh Price)

“In the few days I’ve been here so far I’ve already had plenty of nice messages and visits from people, all glad to see me in Welshpool and some pleasantly surprised that someone’s moved into this building after being empty for a few years.”

Dating back to the late 17th century, the served as a vital rest stop for travellers between 1765 and 1906 within what was then a historic transportation hub between England and Wales known as the ‘Gateway to Wales’ and went through a big renovation in 1830.

The building was refitted during the 1990s and was used as commercial offices for an estate agent as well as having residential accommodation.

(Image: Owain Betts)

The Grade II-listed building was also once the home to the father of 18th century social reformer Robert Owen. A renowned but complex figure due to his views on slavery, Owen advocated for improved working conditions, reduced child labour, and educational reform.

The building was owned by Robert and Margaret Langrebe, who put it up for auction in May 2024.

The shop will be holding an open day on Saturday, November 9 to welcome new customers.