In 2023, two historic Spring Gardens shopfronts were restored under Buxton’s Heritage Action Zone programme. The programme has since ended. The Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust describes Ponden as a former occupant; Fitzgerald’s says it became part of Jacksons The Bakers in August 2026.
The project restored the neighbouring shopfronts at 6–8 and 10–12 Spring Gardens.
High Peak Borough Council and Historic England worked with the owners of Fitzgerald’s Bakery and Ponden Homes on the restorations.
More than £350,000 in grant funding supported work on the two properties, including traditional shopfronts based on historic photographs.
The works also included masonry repairs, repointing and new bay windows at Ponden Homes. The owners also carried out repairs to upper-floor windows.
Councillor Damien Greenhalgh, Deputy Leader and Executive Councillor for Regeneration, Tourism and Leisure, said: “These shop fronts look fantastic. It’s great to see this funding making such a difference to businesses that have been in Spring Gardens for many years.
“This investment we’re making through both the Heritage Action Zone and the Future High Streets Fund will ensure that Buxton town centre is a vibrant, attractive place which works for residents and businesses and attracts visitors.
“Schemes like these at Fitzgerald’s and Ponden Homes show what can be achieved. They have real presence on the street and make a big visual contribution to achieving the Council’s vision of ensuring that the commercial centre of Buxton matches the rich heritage for which the town is famous.”
At the time, Fitzgerald’s was a family bakery selling bread, pies, pastries and cakes.
Ponden Homes sold homewares including curtains, bedding and furniture.
Historic England Team Leader, Tim Allen, said: “Historic England is delighted to be working with High Peak Borough Council and local businesses through the Buxton High Street Heritage Action Zone.
“Ponden Homes and Fitzgerald’s are great businesses at the heart of Spring Gardens and the HSHAZ investment is helping to bring these historic buildings back to their former glory.
“Historic England understands how incredibly important local businesses are to communities. The ongoing work around Spring Gardens through the UK Government’s HSHAZ and Future High Street schemes will help to ensure Buxton is providing great places to shop, work and socialise for generations to come.”
Read the council’s Heritage Action Zone overview.
Advertisement
