A NEW scheme to improve the look of shops in a regenerated town centre has been launched.

Business property owners and tenants in Shipley have been encouraged to apply for grants that will allow them to spruce up their shop frontages.

The grants are being offered through the Shipley Towns Fund.

They will cover 80 per cent of the cost of improvement works, costing a minimum of £1,250 with a maximum award of £20,000. 

Improvements will be subject to planning permissions and can include exterior work to premises such as painting; removal of vegetation from guttering; new windows; new signage; repairs; and access improvements.

Bradford Council’s Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Transport and Planning Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw said: “The grant scheme aims to support all businesses in the eligible area, though priority will be given to shops, then restaurants, pubs and cafes followed by service sector businesses including premises above shops.

“The quality of frontage has an impact on retail success and also the character of a place. There is a lot of ongoing investment in Shipley and we are doing all we can to ensure that businesses can thrive here.”

Gill Thornton, chair of Shipley Towns Fund, said: “The towns fund has invested £3m in transformational improvements to market square. This scheme will build on that and allow businesses to improve their frontage.”

For further information visit: https://www.investinbradford.com/business-support/business-grants-in-bradford/