Mystery over future of closed bakery

Mystery surrounds a closed shop in Abbots Langley high street, as villagers wait to see what it becomes. Tophams Bakers closed before Christmas and its owners, Mansbridge & Son Ltd, applied to the council to have its use changed from A1 to A5 (hot food and takeaways). Residents were up in arms at this idea and formed a campaign called ‘No More Takeaways’ to fight the application. It was thrown out by Three Rivers District Council in November and local bakery chain Simmons told My Abbots News they were interested in bringing the shop back to its former glory. However, Rupert Matthews, of Simmons (Bakers) Ltd, has now revealed that Mansbridge & Son Ltd have decided to cease discussions with them. He commented: “We are still interested and have spoken to the owner on a couple of occasions. However, unfortunately he has decided not to continue discussions with us. We are not entirely sure why.” Locals fighting the A5 application clearly expressed that they would like to see the shop become a bakery again. Janet Marsh said: “A bakery is the only sensible way to go, I have lived in the village for 40 years and we have always had a bakery, it seems a shame not to have a dedicated shop just for bread and pastries.” Gill Hillier added: “More diversity would keep the High Street alive and thriving.  A decent baker would be a good idea.” What would you like to see replace Tophams? Email your thoughts to emily@mynewsmag.co.uk