Funding for shopfront improvements for retail premises and for vacant units to be brought back into use
Owners and tenants of shops and vacant units in Tonbridge and Malling are being offered up to £3,500 in grants to give shop fronts a facelift and bring empty units back into use.
Funding has been secured through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to support local businesses with up to 60% of the cost of improvements to signage, entrances, shop windows and measures to reduce carbon footprints. Applications can be made via the council until the 8 March 2023.
The scheme is open to commercial premises that operate within the retail and food and drink sectors, and vacant units throughout the borough. The ‘Let’s Do Business Group’ is working closely with the council to offer businesses help with the application process.
Applications are welcomed from anywhere in Tonbridge and Malling, but priority will be given to businesses in Tonbridge town centre, Snodland town centre, West Malling High Street and Borough Green High Street in the event of over-subscription.
This latest funding opportunity follows the success of a similar scheme in the borough in 2020 and 2021 which saw 31 projects successfully completed.
The Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Vivian Branson, commented:
‘The previous shopfront grant scheme saw many retail businesses take the opportunity to enhance their premises in our town and local centres.
‘I am really pleased that the council has been able to secure additional funding under the Government’s Levelling Up programme and I urge shop owners to make the most of this opportunity to improve their premises and apply for a grant ahead of the 8 March deadline.’
Businesses can see the full scheme details and complete an application form until 8 March 2023.