A national bar chain set to move into Great Malvern has been welcomed by the town’s MP, traders and members of the public.

The Alturo Lounge, run by Cosy Club owners Loungers, will be moving into the old Prezzo building in Belle Vue Terrace.

About 30 jobs are likely to be created by the arrival of the bar and a million pounds is set to be invested in what is a listed building.

Harriett Baldwin, the MP for West Worcestershire, said: “It’s great news to see more brands choosing to locate their businesses in Malvern and I welcome the plans to open up a new Alturo Lounge in Great Malvern.

Malvern Gazette: Harriett Baldwin MP is pleased to see more investment in MalvernHarriett Baldwin MP is pleased to see more investment in Malvern

“I think this is a period when Malvern is springing forward after the pandemic. New stores are opening up offering more options both for local people and visitors to make the most of Malvern’s great shopping areas.

“The Levelling Up Fund award was a great extra boost for the town, and from talking to local people, there is a real feeling of economic confidence, which will lead to better shops and venues and more new jobs for local people.”

A spokesperson for Weavers of Malvern, a microbar in Church Street, said: “It can only be good!

“We support all other businesses in the town centre and money brings money.

Malvern Gazette: Weavers of Malvern says the new bar can 'only be good' for the town centreWeavers of Malvern says the new bar can 'only be good' for the town centre (Image: NQ)

“We offer something different to people and the Alturo Lounge will offer something different and unique, much like us.”

Simon Smith, head of economic development at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “We welcome this new addition to Great Malvern, which will make a positive contribution to our already vibrant night-time and leisure economy.

"It is great to see such a high-quality, established brand investing in the area."

Chris Lee of Amaze, a charity shop in Belle Vue Terrace, said: “Any business that takes on empty premises and offers employment is good for Malvern. I hope they do well with their venture.”

Malvern Gazette readers have also been positive about the new bar coming to the town.

READ MORE: Cosy Club owners eye Malvern move with new Alturo Lounge plans

One commenting on Facebook said: “Anything new in Malvern is a bonus, the town centre needs revitalising as it’s looking a bit rundown, so hopefully other businesses will follow.”

Others said how much they enjoyed visiting Cosy Club in Worcester so have high hopes for the Alturo Lounge.

But not everyone was excited to see a chain coming into Malvern.

“This is not good news for the independents in town,” said one Gazette reader. “It’s extremely worrying for those of us who have fought so hard to keep our businesses going through covid and now this recession. Just feels like another absolute blow.”