5 Herts businesses that have opened or closed this month

Here's five businesses that opened or closed this month.

1. Firejacks and Banana Tree - Stevenage

Firejacks on Stevenage Leisure Park has closed down, but it has been quickly replaced with a new restaurant.

Pan-Asian eatery Banana Tree will be offering salad bowls, soupy noodles, curries, regional specialties and more.

The Firejacks spokesperson said: "As one chapter closes, another exciting one begins. We’re thrilled to announce that our sister brand, Banana Tree, will be taking over, bringing a fresh and vibrant dining experience.

"Banana Tree offers a delightful Pan-Asian cuisine that we know you'll love. Whether you're a fan of spicy curries, fresh salads or savoury stir-fries, there’s something for everyone."

Firejacks in Stevenage has closed. (Image: Google Maps)

2. Poundland - Hitchin

Poundland's store in Hitchin town centre will stay open after all, despite a previous announcement that it would close.

A spokesperson for the discount store chain previously said that they had been unable to secure a long-term lease for the unit in Bancroft, with the shutters set to come down for good on July 16.

But they have now confirmed that Poundland has "been able to come to an agreement regarding the lease that will allow us to stay open".

Poundland moved into the former Wilko unit in Bancroft in October last year, after Wilko went into administration.

3. Beefeater - Stevenage and Welwyn Garden City

Stevenage and Welwyn Garden City's Beefeater have become a Premier Inn restaurant that only hotel guests can dine at.

Whitbread - which owns both the restaurant and hotel chain - informed customers of the changes earlier this month.

"We are writing to let you know that we've announced plans to make changes at some of our restaurants," read an email to diners.

"Unfortunately, we will be changing to a Premier Inn restaurant and will only service those staying in the hotel after July 5."

The former Beefeater in Coreys Mill. (Image: Google Maps)

4. Waffle Wands - St Albans

A popular online waffle shop has opened its first physical shop, with a pop up venue in St Albans.

Based in Hitchin, Waffle Wands was set up in 2015 by brother and sister team Louie and Sophie, initially specialising in weddings.

They provide freshly baked warm waffles with a variety of toppings, as well as pancakes, crumbles and S'mores.

Now they're launching their first shop, which opened on July 13 at the Maltings Shopping Centre, where they will remain there for the "foreseeable future".

Waffle Wands is coming to St Albans. (Image: Waffle Wands)

5. Saporito Street - Letchworth

A new takeaway serving up the best in Italian cuisine has opened in Letchworth.

Saporito Street operates from Green Lane, and is available on Deliveroo and Just Eat every day from 11am to 9pm.

Serving up Italian favourites, including arancini and tiramisu, the takeaway specialises in pasta, with plenty of dishes on offer.

"We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of our new Italian takeaway restaurant," said Saporito Street owner Simona Sergi in a Facebook post.