First Business Opening at M.F. Charles Building Within Days

After more than a year of planning and construction, the opening of the revitalized M.F. Charles building’s first business is within sight.

According to Staff Planner Jessie Wilson, Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt is attempting to open its doors this weekend if they can get their final permits in place, and if they’re unable to by this weekend they will open within a week or two.

The Orange Leaf opening will mark the first of several milestones in the upcoming months. Wilson said D’Amici’s Bakery will likely be the next business in the renovated historic building to open.

Bunratty’s Tavern has been through the permitting process, but developers are working with their architect to get building plans finalized. Wilson said the tavern is “on the horizon” and that the town hopes they’ll be open by spring and summer so patrons can utilize the patio.

The Hitching Post Gift Shop is scheduled to move back into its Main Street location when construction is complete. The shop temporarily combined with The Chocolate Truffle so it could remain open through the holiday season, something Wilson said showed great ingenuity.

“I think that was a great idea on their part,” said Wilson. “We always want to see businesses collaborate together downtown, and throughout town. I think when businesses work together, it improves the community as a whole.”

There remain a few other spaces in the M.F. Charles complex that the owners plan to rent out, but Wilson said she hasn’t heard what the plans are for the space.

The last of the businesses to open will be Northern Bank & Trust, because it must go through a federal approval process.

Overall, Wilson said the official opening of the M.F. Charles building is exciting news for the Reading downtown area and business community.

“I think this is going to be a great addition to the town,” said Wilson.