Cleveleys has a new name on the hospitality scene with the arrival of Orco Lounge Bar, bringing another option for people looking to meet friends, enjoy a drink or spend time in town.

New venues can add choice and energy to a high street, and every business deserves the chance to find its audience. But the arrival of a larger or more corporate-style operation also gives us a timely reason to think about the independent cafés, pubs and bars that help make Cleveleys feel like our town.

Our independents are part of the local character. They are often built around the hard work, savings and hopes of local owners. They create places where staff get to know regulars, familiar faces meet over coffee, and a quick visit can turn into a friendly chat.

Independent businesses can also bring their own personality to the high street: a favourite homemade treat, a quirky interior, a local event or simply the warm welcome that keeps customers coming back. They help give Cleveleys variety, and that variety is worth protecting.

Of course, competition is part of business. We should welcome new places without turning this into a contest between good and bad. The important point is that our spending choices help shape the high street we will have tomorrow.

When we buy a coffee, meet friends for lunch, book a celebration or choose somewhere for an evening drink, it is worth looking at the independent options too. Try somewhere you have walked past but never visited. Order from a local menu, leave a fair review, recommend a favourite to friends or share a business’s social media post.

Supporting local does not mean refusing to try somewhere new. It means making sure the places already woven into community life are not forgotten as new choices arrive. A little regular custom from local residents can make a meaningful difference to a small business working hard to cover wages, rent, stock and rising costs.

And businesses can help one another, too. Share recommendations, collaborate on events and give customers reasons to spend a little longer in Cleveleys. A lively town centre should have room for different styles, prices and experiences.

So, welcome to the changing face of Cleveleys hospitality. Enjoy discovering new venues, but next time you are deciding where to go, spare a thought for the independent cafés, pubs and bars that give our town its own flavour.

Love your local high street? Spend local, recommend local and help keep Cleveleys full of character.