THE opening of a coffee shop by an expanding Bolton business is set to boost one of the town centre's main shopping streets.

The Coffee Grind has opened its second shop in Newport Street, after initially opening in Bolton Market in January 2014.

The new coffee shop is based in a previously empty unit, and is part of Bolton Council's £3 million scheme to redevelop the street.

As part of the development, £2 million is being spent on renovating shop fronts, with a further £1 million on improving the street with new paving, seating, street lights and trees.

Jill and Nigel Lyons, the owners of The Coffee Grind, were given a grant from the council to help with business rates and rent and decided to expand after the success of their first shop.

They have taken on the premises on a seven year lease, and will open seven days a week.

As well as tea and coffee, the shop offers breakfast items, sandwiches, paninis, frappes and milkshakes.

Jill, from Smithills, said: "We’re so proud of Bolton. I’m Bolton born and bred, and Nigel’s a Cockney but loves Bolton now too.

"We’re ready to expand and wanted to stay in Bolton. We have had so much support and encouragement from the council, and the market management.

"I think the new shop fronts look fantastic and, once all the paving is done, the street will look more modern. Also when the new interchange opens, we can really cater for bus and train commuters.

“We have a super base of customers who come to us week in and week out there, and we are staying open."

Cllr Cliff Morris, leader of Bolton Council, added: "It’s absolutely brilliant news that The Coffee Grind is opening up on Newport Street.

"They are a real Bolton success story. An independent, successful business which started in our award-winning market, and now expanding but staying true to their roots and staying in the heart of the town centre.

"This is exactly what we were hoping would happen when we started our redevelopment of Newport Street and I’d like to wish Jill and Nigel the best of luck with their new shop."

The opening of The Coffee Grind comes after the first stage of work on Newport Street was completed, with businesses including Newsbox, Greggs, Shuz4u, Redd and H&P Pawnbrokers have having had their shop fronts renovated.