Fronting up cash for shop fronts

SHOP owners in Earl Shilton looking to make their shop fronts more attractive are invited to apply for grants of up to £2,500 from Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council.

Businesses can spend the money on a new front or repairs and reinstatement of a former facade, as well as external lighting and internal security grilles or security glazing.

Applicants must be an independent retailer or community property with no more than five shops, and are required to match fund at least 50 per cent of the amount granted, towards the works. Payment of the grant will be made on completion of the work and after evidence has been provided that full payment has been made to the contractor.

Applications cannot be made retrospectively, so a grant offer must be secured before the works begin.

The type of works that would not normally be funded include lighting or equipment within window displays, pedestrian access improvements, repairs to guttering or external security features.

Professional fees such as for planning applications, consultancy or advisory services are also unlikely to be eligible.

The grant scheme was due to start last year but it was set back by the coronavirus pandemic.

A financial report presented to the council last month showed that more than £14,000 was still available to give to successful applicants. Two businesses in the town have already successfully applied for the funding.

For more information about how to apply, email mark.hryniw@ hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk or call Hinckley 255755.