Less than two years ago Brigstock Road was a collection of empty shops with little hope of rejuvenation.

While the council’s multi million pound regeneration focussed on the High Street the other end of Brigstock Road was forgotten.

The closure of the long established Brigstock Cafe seemed to mark the end but the revival has been swift bucking the downward trend of most High Streets. Now the road is a vibrant with independent businesses offering a range of services.

The Railway Telegraph recently repainted the outside of the pub and says Rose Whitbread, general manager: “We aim to give Thornton Heath community what it deserves with uncertain times now and around the corner. This is why we have put investment in to The Railway Telegraph. With new establishments opening on our doorstep it gives customers new options. We are excited about the new look Thornton Heath and are aiming to play a big hand in the regeneration. “

The Brigstock Cafe looked certain to sit empty for years but then pizza restaurant and takeaway Fireaway opened. Mario Aleppo, owner said: “If I remember correct when we got the keys the road was pretty dull but we took the risk and it paid off with other businesses following suit. There is a great variety of locals that we have had the pleasure of meeting. We enjoy serving good people good pizzas in Thornton Heath.”

The building now occupied by ASKi on the corner of Brigstock Road and Boswell was used to sell second hand goods.

Joseph Jeffers, of ASKI said: “I walked past the shop and realised it had the potential to become a hub for the local community. I feel proud that ASKI had the vision along with other local business owners are making a difference to the High Street.  We would love more people to pop in and find out what we do and how we can work together.”

Other new editions include The Patty Palace which has recently opened an ice cream parlour and juices and sandwich shop Rich 4 Life. ASKI has also  been joined by a new neighbour tattoo, piercings and beauty shop Addicted2Inkz with a new bar and restaurant called Tropics 55 opening opposite soon.

The street scene has also improved with the much admired mural part of the regeneration painted on the Ganapathy Temple by designer Vân Dang and street art on the side of Brigstock House. The building is also set to get a further make over with a planning application to replace the windows with PVC windows .