New £400,000 fund to revive Wolverhampton's struggling high streets
A new £400,000 grant scheme has been set up to help revitalise high streets across Wolverhampton.
Grants of up to £5,000 will be available to independent retailers through the new Vibrant High Streets grants programme which will be launched next week.
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The scheme, which will be open to businesses in the city centre, Bilston, Wednesfield and other high streets, is designed to help them improve the visual appearance, safety and customer service experience at their premises.
The council says it will also build on the work of major regeneration schemes such as the £19 million city centre paving works in Lichfield Street, Queen Square and Darlington Street; the £8 million redevelopment of Bilston Market; and the £3.3 million improvements to Wednesfield High Street.
Applications open on March 6 for grants towards shop-front improvements, interior and external refurbishments, and digital, marketing and security work. Businesses must provide evidence of match-funding worth at least 20 per cent of the total cost of the project.
The grants scheme is backed by funding from the Government's Pride in Place initiative.
Councillor Chris Burden, cabinet member for city development, said: “The aim of this grant scheme is to build on the major investment currently being delivered across our urban centres.
“This further support for our ‘high-street’ retailers and businesses gives them the opportunity to secure funding that will enable them to thrive and boost the local economy.
“We anticipate demand will be very high for these grants, and applications will close once all the funding has been allocated, so I would urge businesses to submit a grant application as soon as possible.”
Applications for the grants are on a competitive basis, subject to availability of funds, and distributed at the discretion of the council.
Grant applications will be considered as they are received, and will close once all funds are awarded.
For more information email business.development@wolverhampton.gov.uk or telephone 01902 555572 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Thursday, and 9am to 4.30pm on Fridays.
