A NEW gin workshop is set to open in Hampshire, marking the next step in Winchester city centre’s Silver Hill 2 revamp scheme.

The Blend Academy is a gin school hosting ‘create your own gin’ sessions as well as classes.

It is set to open its doors on October 1.

Run by local distillers Winchester Distillery, the new workshop will take over the former Post Office site in Middle Brook Street, part of the city council’s Silver Hill 2 regeneration area.

The building has remained empty for a number of years.

The announcement follows the news that group Nutshell Arts will take over the also vacant Antique Market building.

Also part of the Silver Hill area, the announcements mark the first steps in the project, officially known as the Central Winchester Regeneration project, to revamp part of the city centre.

Council leader Caroline Horrill, who is also chairman of the Committee leading the Central Winchester Regeneration, said: “It’s super to see local businesses take up space in the city centre and be a part of a thriving business community.

“We are thrilled to have the Winchester Distillery take up residence on Middle Brook Street, where we’ve already welcomed a Pilates business.

“The premises have been empty and neglected for years so we’ve totally refurbished the space and with businesses like Winchester Distillery moving in, it’s being brought back to life.

“This company has grown up locally and is a great example of innovation and growth in our district.”

Winchester Distillery owner Paul Bowler added: “We’ve been running gin-making experiences from our distillery in Alresford for a few years now and they’ve been really successful.

“This new space in central Winchester means more people can easily reach us and now we will have the space to host a range of fun, educational events including Wine and Spirit Education Trust classes too.”

As well as the new workshop, Winchester city centre has also welcomed the arrival of new frozen foods store Cook, which has brought the former Jaeger shop in St George’s Street back to life.

The unit has been empty since the fashion chain went into administration last summer.

As previously reported, the Silver Hill 2 scheme sets out the vision for the regeneration of part of the city centre.

The 4.5 hectare area includes key sites such as the bus station, The Broadway, St Clements Medical Centre, Friarsgate Car Park and the Antique Market building.