A COFFEE shop in the heart of Odiham is set to move to replace a former off-licence.

Kathryn Ball, who runs Fountains Coffee Shop, in Fountains Mall, wants to move to another building in High Street that until one year ago was occupied by Wine Rack.

The move to the larger premises would see the coffee shop open a bakery and a delicatessen.

Planning officers at Hart District Council used delegated powers to approve the change of use plan for the Grade II-listed building.

Miss Ball, a former member of Odiham Parish Council, said in a planning statement that her current premises is likely to revert to retail, which she said will sustain shopping in High Street.

Businesses have recently formed a group called InOdiham which, taking inspiration from retail guru Mary Portas, aims to transform the fortunes of the village’s shops.

The group has paid for hanging baskets for the street’s lamp-posts, and plans to expand the Odiham Extravaganza, the village’s annual Christmas shopping event.

Miss Ball added: “Relocation to No. 75 in the High Street will allow the owner to build upon this success enhancing the service to the community and assisting in the maintenance and prosperity in this part of the Odiham Conservation Area.”

The application stated that the shop’s current services, which include a takeaway, will continue.