A FORMER Hampshire pub is set to be given a new lease of life when it re-opens as a retail and residential block next month.

The 18th century pub, the Vine Inn, in Stockbridge High Street, closed in 2012 and is now being replaced with a string of businesses, homes and parking in a development by DC Li Builders.

The Grade II-listed building, to be called the Vine Yard, will now include three holiday apartments, a seamstress’, hairdressers, estate agents, offices and stores for bridal wear, pianos and wine.

Vine Pianos owner Deborah Barlow is looking forward to the Vine Yard’s grand opening on Friday, December 1 and for it to “once again serve its town, just differently”.

She said: “I suffered a serious horse riding accident last year so I decided to use the opportunity to return to my formerly loved occupation as a piano tuner which I’ll be doing in Stockbridge’s Vine Yard.

“It’s quite ironic that I’m now leasing a converted stable.”

Test Valley Borough Council’s economic development and tourism portfolio holder councillor David Drew said: “This is a creative and innovative project using a former public house building.

“It provides space for retail units that locals have asked for and adds additional economic vibrancy to Stockbridge High Street. I wish the new occupants all the very best with the new venture.”