Lancashire tech: The local council didn’t recognise my nail & beauty salon as a valid business
By Lilly Delmage | 22 February 2025 | Feature, Salon & Spas
Owner of The Nail & Beauty Lounge, Julie McCabe, shares the challenges she faced when trying to set up her business, as well as its growth and success…
Julie McCabe was excited to open her salon after finding the perfect space. She details: “It is a former hair salon in a historic, grade 2 listed building that was built for a local business owner. I purchased the building last year and have since opened two more salons: one in partnership with my daughter, and the other was an opportunity that came up in a neighbouring town.”
However, the process wasn’t entirely smooth sailing. She explains: “The local council didn’t recognise a nail and beauty salon as a valid business. I ended up having to apply to the planning department to get permission for a ‘change of use’ from a hair salon to a nail salon. I had meetings with my local MP to try and address this issue to help other salon owners, but my appeal was rejected.”
Julie advises: “I would tell anyone opening a salon to check the licensing/planning category of the building they’re taking on before signing a lease.”
Despite legal setbacks, Julie eventually created her dream space. “The salon has a classic, modern and timeless vibe which complements the Georgian building. This attracts the type of client that wants high-quality services,” she says.
Located in the historical village of Poulton-le-Fylde, Julie considered the demographics of locals when choosing a space: “The village is home to a mix of professionals and retirees, so I wanted a ground-floor location with disabled access, lots of passing footfall and access to parking.”
This also influenced the interior design choices of the salon. She shares: “The salon is designed for professional women over the age of 35, so is busy throughout the week, as many of our clients don’t work. We create a welcoming, friendly and professional environment. It is important to me that The Nail & Beauty Lounge is designed around the preferences of our dream clients.”
The salon boasts an impressive service menu: from nail treatments to facials, massages, waxing and ear piercing. “We offer services suited to every client and lifestyle,” says the salon owner. “We offer L&P acrylic, gel extension, builder gel and gel polish services, and manicures and pedicures.” As for brands, the business uses INK London, PersoNAILity and Bio Sculpture.
Catering to client requests are nine in-house team members and a remote virtual assistant, as Julie explains: “There are two salon managers, two beauty therapists, two nail techs and two apprentices. We’re currently looking for a salon coordinator, social media manager and new apprentice.”
Having enjoyed a long and successful career working behind the nail desk, as well as being a session manicurist for high-profile clients and brands, Julie is now enjoying the business aspect of running a salon.
“You certainly need a different set of skills as a salon owner in charge of a team,” she continues. “My husband is a salon coach, so I always have someone to talk business with – which I love! I also enjoy spending time with the team. I employ people I get on well with, and who can keep up with my constant ideas!”
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