It's sofa so good for new furniture store

FURNITURE by Lauren . . . the new business venture run by Gavin and Lauren Howarth in Oldham's independent quarter

A FORMER nightclub has been transformed into a new furniture store as the latest business in Oldham's independent quarter officially opens.

Furniture by Lauren recently started trading at 46/48 Yorkshire Street, at the junction of Waterloo Street, in the town centre - breathing new life into the former Kiss Bar.

Gavin and Lauren Howarth, who run the small family business, specialise in made-to-measure sofas but also sell a full range of accessories designed to turn any dwelling into a home.

With more than 30 years' experience in the furniture trade between them, the Royton couple believe their experience enables them to provide customers with well-known brands and bespoke furniture at competitive prices.

Gavin said: "We chose Oldham for our first retail premises because we are Oldham born and bred and still live locally. We wanted to support our town and are excited by the efforts the council are making to improve and regenerate the town centre.

Lauren added: "We want to bring style, quality but also value for money to the people of Oldham."

Before the business moved into the premises, the building had been empty for a number of years. Oldham Council acquired it and carried out a full refurbishment.

Council leader Jean Stretton said: "Lauren and Gavin are a local couple who are willing to invest their money and are just the type of high-end business we want to see in the independent quarter. They could have chosen to go elsewhere but have put their faith in the town centre and we hope people will support them and buy local."

Since the independent quarter initiative was launched in 2013 a number of traders have moved or relocated into new premises. The initial focus is to support businesses in the in the triangle between Yorkshire Street, Clegg Street and Union Street East.