Ashfield District Council is launching two new grant schemes to support local businesses.
The two schemes, The Enterprise Development Grant and the Hucknall High Street Shop Front Improvement Grant, will open for applications on 1 August. The schemes are one of the initiatives to support local businesses being financed by the Council’s £3.2million UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which was secured from the government in December 2022.
The Enterprise Development Grant is aimed at new and existing businesses, in the District’s town centres and shopping centres, that have a viable plan to grow their business that will lead to the creation of new jobs. Businesses that are eligible can apply for grants of up to £6000.
The Hucknall High Street Shop Front Improvement Grant is specifically for small businesses located on the southern end of the High Street (between the junctions of Watnall Road and Station Street/Duke Street). This scheme will enhance the character, value, and appeal of the businesses whilst improving the appearance of that end of Hucknall High Street. Grants for eligible properties will pay for up to 80% of the project cost (up to maximum grant payment of £9,600).
Full details on how to apply and guidance for applications will be live on the Council’s website from 1 August. Applications for the scheme will close on 31 October 2024.
Cllr Matthew Relf, Executive Lead for Regeneration and Planning, said “We are so excited to be able to launch these two new schemes to support our local businesses in Ashfield. We want to help our town centres become buzzing again and to allow local business to flourish. Hucknall is filled with unique and independent businesses and this grant will allow them to transform their premises to properly reflect the heart of their businesses.
“These are just one of the many initiatives and projects that we will be launching soon from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.”
Cllr Lee Waters, Ward Councillor for Hucknall Central, said “We have fought for money to be available to improve Hucknall’s High Street. These grants will ensure that the thriving town centre continues to grow. Whilst we are incredibly ambitious for Hucknall’s town centre, it’s critical we support as many of the traders as possible now.”
