Existing independent town centre businesses in North Devon are being reminded to take advantage of a scheme that awards small grants for improving shop fronts or other potential enhancement projects.

North Devon Council's Town Centre Enhancement Scheme was first launched in summer 2023 and encourages businesses to upgrade, repair and refurbish shopfronts in North Devon’s town centres.

The scheme has so far supported 32 local business owners, representing a total investment of £47,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the council says the scheme already resulted in some impressive transformations in Barnstaple, Braunton and Ilfracombe.

The council will contribute up to 50% of total eligible project costs, with businesses expected to match the council’s contribution. The maximum grant available is £2000 or 50% of eligible project costs, whichever is the lower amount.  The grant is ideal for supporting small repair or improvement projects such as fascia repairs, signage, painting and decorating, guttering, lighting and more.

Lead Member for Economic Development and Regeneration at North Devon Council, Councillor Malcolm Prowse says: "This is a really great opportunity to improve the overall appearance of our town centres. These grants will give support to local businesses to enhance their own shop fronts by contributing to improvements and repairs. 

"We welcome grant applications from small or micro businesses and all charities and social enterprises. Retail, cafés, restaurants, pubs, financial/professional services, tourism and leisure businesses are all eligible for this grant, and other cases will be considered on their merits."

There is an open-application approach with no set deadlines throughout the year, meaning applications will be determined on their own eligibility and merit on a first-come, first-served basis - however the scheme is being closed on 31 December 2024, and the works have to be completed and grant claimed by the end of March 2025.

Buildings eligible for grant assistance from the council are commercial buildings that are situated within the sub-regional centre of Barnstaple or one of the following areas within North Devon:  Braunton, Ilfracombe, Lynton & Lynmouth, Combe Martin and South Molton.

Businesses within a town centre or high street outside of these locations should get in touch with the council to register their interest as the council may be able to widen the scheme if funding allows.

The decision as to whether any works proposed are eligible for grant will be at the sole discretion of North Devon Council. 

Interested businesses can apply on North Devon Council’s website up to 31 December 2024.