Ambitious proposals to redevelop a former Lincoln shopping centre led to barber Phil Walters having to relocate his business much sooner than planned.
But, with the help of Lincoln commercial agent Banks Long & Co, he has made a slick expansion move and now he is attracting more passing trade, about to open for longer hours and even creating a job opportunity!
Phil, better known as The Demon Barber of Lincoln, used to be based in The Mall in Lincoln’s upper High Street, which was sold at auction late last year.
That move meant its tenants had to find alternative premises, but from the outset Banks Long & Co – which acted for developer M J Strawson who wants to convert the old shopping arcade – said it was keen to help the affected businesses to relocate.
“At that point, I had been thinking of moving in a year’s time, so it was a bit of an upheaval. However, it has turned out to be positive,” said Phil.
“I started looking for somewhere else in January, but also decided to talk to Surveyor Harriet Hatcher at Banks Long. I had a “shopping list”, I wanted to stay in the city centre because many of my clients walk, or cycle, to my shop.
“Harriet quickly provided me with information about potential premises, including this former gift unit at Whitefriars Business Park, at the back of 333 High Street, conveniently next to the Tentercroft Street Car Park.”
As part of the negotiation process the former gift shop (which used to be based in two units) – has been amalgamated into one next door and Phil has ended-up being the proud tenant of a barber’s shop four times the size of the one he had previously!
With its jaunty red-and-white barbers’ pole outside the door, this fabulously-styled shop is not only serving Phil’s regular customers, but attracting good passing trade – because the car park is linked to the High Street by a passageway. In fact, Phil has ambitions to name it “The Demon’s Passage.”
“I have only just re-opened, but I’ve been getting some good comments from customers. From May, I am looking to open late on Thursdays (until 8pm). I’ve also created a working station for an apprentice and I’m looking to take on someone who is really passionate about barbering and keen to make it their career,” said Phil.
Adrian Trevelyan, who lives just outside of Lincoln, has been a customer of Phil’s for the past 18 months.
“Visiting Phil’s shop is a truly exceptional experience of joyous wonder. The décor is amazing and he is a barber of supreme quality who puts you at your absolute ease. It’s how life should be.”
Banks Long & Co Surveyor Harriet Hatcher said: “We were very pleased to be able to find Phil alternative premises within the City centre. The shop looks fantastic and I am sure he will be very successful in his new location. We wish him the best of luck.”
