Those who follow this blog will know already that just over a year ago we were delighted that our application to upgrade our key corner position on Junction Road, within the St. John’s Grove conservation area was successful and a grant towards the cost of our scheme was awarded. The funding secured by Anna Woodward and the Archway Town Centre Management Group will upgrade Archway's profile and give the high street a much needed boost.
Working with local architects Lyndon Goode we set about designing a new frontage, which through sensitive design would enhance the individuality and character of the building, as well as providing improved access. The motivation for our application back in April 2012 was our acknowledgement that our access was just not easy enough!
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| Works to raise the pavement. |
Long standing, valued disabled customers were left out in the cold - our corner door location with pavements sloping away to the pedestrian crossing on Junction Road and narrow front door just weren't friendly and as you know - we are!
Relocating the entrance from the existing location at the corner to the side elevation (on St John's Grove), and raising the pavement a couple of inches now provides a level access for our disabled customers and those with pushchairs and prams.
" I wheeled the first baby buggy through the new
We have installed a wider door which clicks open at 90 degrees and made a huge space in front of the door allowing buggies - double, single even triple, wheelchairs and mobility chairs alike to do a full 360!
One of our first customers on Monday was a mobility chair user who tested the door and new layout said "I am delighted to be able to finally have a good look around - it's amazing". We are delighted too!
Back by popular request is our signature pink shop front.
After much deliberation and consultation we decided that map gift shop would remain "in the pink!"
As one customer so kindly put it -
"The lovely
A dedicated area for cards and stationary.
New bespoke display and storage.
New dark oak flooring throughout emphasises the length of the shop.
New "luggage" wallpaper on the rear wall completes the vintage feel.
..................and of course new stock arriving daily..............
...we have quite a few finishing touches still to add..... Work continues with the new window display area - more pictures coming soon. Don't forget to follow us on twitter
@mapgiftshop and like us on facebook facebook.com/mapgiftshop for an invitation to our big birthday launch party soon!
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