A NEW independent coffee shop and wine bar could be the latest addition to the the bustling Leigh Broadway, it has been revealed.

A new business, under the company name “North Coffee and Wine” has submitted a licensing application to Southend Council in a bid to get the green light to sell alcohol and replace the former Stuarts of Leigh jewellers.

The Broadway has been hailed as a “mecca for independent businesses” with a host of small cafes, restaurants, shops and businesses thriving in the location.

Ricky Coombes, owner of the Blind Barbers four doors down from the projected site location, said: “Another coffee shop in the Broadway would be a good addition because it’ll bring more options for people and continue to add a sense of vibrancy to the area.

“Leigh Broadway is known for being a Mecca for independent businesses, and when I opened the Blind Barbers in 2017, I realised how close nit it allows entrepreneurs to be with the community.

“People enjoy supporting independent shops, and I’m sure they’ll do the same with the coffee and wine place if it went ahead.

“Hopefully, it’ll attract more people to come to the great Leigh Broadway.”

The Echo recently visited Leigh Broadway to highlight the success of independent businesses with Friday’s paper featuring the likes of the Little Card Shop, Rockamilly, and other independent shops.

Richard Longstaff, Leigh ward Green councillor, said: “I’ve lived here for 20-years, and Leigh Broadway has always been a tremendous hub for independent businesses.

“With loads of people deciding to set up shop in the Broadway due to the strong support from residents and beyond, it’s also a mecca for independent businesses.

“Even though I’d personally rather clothing or flower shops over a coffee and wine store, I acknowledge people enjoy these and are very popular, so I’m sure it’ll do very well for the Broadway and the economy.

“I look forward to hearing updates.”

The licensing application outlines plans for the new businesses to sell alcohol both on and off the premises between Sunday and Wednesday from 9am to 9pm, as well as Thursday through to Saturday from 12pm to 12am.

The application was received by the council on October 27, and representation must be received by November 29 ahead of a decision being made by the council.