Damage caused to a newly open shop after a car ploughed into it is estimated to be in the region £100k
Lisa Openshaw, who opened clothing boutique, Pretty Little Closet on Tonge Moor Road says she is in “total despair” after being forced to close the store when a car smashed into the building on Saturday evening (November 2).
The building was initially classified as too dangerous for entry due to the extent of the structural damage. Lisa was able to regain access to the shop on Wednesday (November 6) to assess the extent of the damage caused by the collision.
It is believed that the damage could be valued anywhere from £50k to £100k in repair costs to the building.
Speaking to The Bolton News, Lisa said: “I’m heartbroken and devastated I didn’t think it would cause this much damage; the whole building is in ruins leaving me in total despair.
“All I wanted was to make a better future for my family. The upstairs of the building is totally unobtainable. The ceiling is ready to fall through, and the skirting board has come away completely.
“The walls are destroyed, and some have cracks. The shop’s roller shutter has come away completely and there’s a big hole at the side of the building which goes under the floor.
“The whole building has been reduced to rubble.
“With Christmas just around the corner, a baby on the way and bills to be paid, I was really relying on this season to provide for my family.”
The GoFundMe page for Lisa’s business currently stands at £440 of the £1,000 target.
Another car, a telephone pole and a large metal bin was hit before the car smashed into the shop.
Two men were arrested at the scene of the collision and officers are still investigating the incident.
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