Applications still welcome for business maintenance grants

SEVERAL Mountain Ash businesses are benefiting from a new scheme to improve the look of their premises – and the council is still accepting new applications.

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is running a £50,000 one-year pilot for a Town Centre Maintenance Grant for businesses in Mountain Ash and Tonypandy retail areas.

The grant allows traders and landlords, including those of vacant properties, to carry out improvement and maintenance works to building exteriors – including painting, powder coating on shutters and various repairs.

A total of 36 applications have been received by the council with 25 approved so far.

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s cabinet member for enterprise, development and housing Councillor Robert Bevan said: “The council agreed to pilot a new Town Centre Maintenance Grant to give business-owners and landlords in Mountain Ash and Tonypandy financial support to improve the appearance of their property fronts – therefore helping to improve the wider town centre street scene.

“Improving our town centres and their visitor offer, and ultimately making them a more attractive place to work and visit, is a priority for this council.

“It is hoped this will, in turn, encourage external investment from the private sector.”

The scheme could be extended to other areas following a review set to take place later this year.

Works must be carried out by a reputable contractor, and the scheme will contribute a maximum of 75% towards eligible costs – with a maximum grant of £1,000.

A further grant of up to £300 (75% maximum contribution) may also be available where scaffolding or skip hire is required to carry out the work.

Applications are assessed on a first-come, first-served basis, are limited to one per property, and do not have a deadline.

For more information and to apply, email regeneration@rctcbc.gov.uk