Applications are now open for the Town Centre Capital Grant Scheme.
The fund administered by Moray Council of £390,000 aims to support existing and new businesses and encourage the redevelopment and reuse of vacant properties across town centres in Aberlour, Buckie, Dufftown, Elgin, Keith and Lossiemouth.
The purpose of the funding is to encourage the redevelopment and reuse of vacant properties to support town-centre living and improve the attractiveness of the town centres.
The scheme offers grants up to 50% of the eligible costs, up to a maximum of £50,000. Match-funding of at least 50% will be required from the property owner or tenant.
The full list of eligible works is:
- Transforming Empty Space (eg converting empty property into residential* or business space within a Town Centre)
- Support businesses to relocate to an alternative vacant property (increasing or decreasing capacity) within a Town Centre
- To support sub-division or expansion of existing buildings within a Town Centre (eg split one large shop into two smaller shops or expansion of current premises)
- To support new business start-up within a Town Centre
- To support businesses to make improvements to shopfronts, properties, signage (eg heritage signage on walls and lanes) and external lighting (eg decorative and security lighting) within a Town Centre to improve the attractiveness of the business and encourage people to shop local and to create greater footfall
The deadline for applications is 11 October 2024.
Moray Council’s Chair of the Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, Cllr Marc Macrae, said “This grant scheme is a great support for our local businesses which still face a challenging environment.
“Our town centre businesses will be able to benefit from the funding, allowing us to direct our efforts towards enhancing the appeal of our town centres.”
For more information on the grant and how to apply please visit the Moray Council website.