A SOUTHWOLD antiques store that was forced to leave its long-time home has reopened for business.

Cornucopia antiques faced an uncertain future in March when it was announced that the Old Bakehouse Store on Blackmill Road would be turned into a holiday home – despite strong opposition.

But it is now welcoming customers again, at a new base behind Sutherland House restaurant on High Street.

The restaurant enabled the dealers displaced from the Old Bakehouse to continue trading, by allowing them to set up shop in its Garden Room, located at the back of the property.

The move has helped safeguard five jobs in Southwold, as well as keeping an important independent business in the town.

Antique and furniture specialist Peter Gibbs, of Reydon, who is one of five dealers based at the new premises, said he had become increasingly concerned about Cornucopia's future, but was hoping customers would return.

'Come and see us,' he said. 'See what bargains we have to offer that are good value for money.

'We offer something that is a bit different in Southwold and you need diversity.'

He added: 'Antiques are now being promoted as being 'green' so why not help recycle some old furniture?'

Earlier this year, Southwold Town Council voiced its opposition against the decision to allow the Old Bakehouse Store to be turned into a house on the grounds that it could cause a vibrant town centre business to close.

But Waveney District Council defended its decision to approve the planning application, saying the property was not protected from being converted into a home because it was not within the town's commercial zone.

The plans for the Old Bakehouse Store, approved under delegated powers, also prompted objections from local people and traders, who said there was no evidence to suggest it could not still operate as a business.

The antique dealers back in business at their new base behind Sutherland House, near the junction with Victoria Street, are: Danielle Swanson, Marianne Rose, Nicola Mummery, Peter Gibbs and Max Johnson.

For more information about Cornucopia, contact Peter Gibbs on 01502 723390.