Shop front scheme to enhance Mablethorpe and Sutton on Sea

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Local businesses are being encouraged to apply to the Shop Front Grant scheme, which was launched on Friday, August 13, 2010.

The Scheme is being funded by East Lindsey District Council, as part of a package of support to develop town centre management, with £27,000 being made available to support the project this financial year. The Scheme is open to grant applications of up to £3,000 or for 50% of a project, whichever is lesser.

Eligible projects may include:

• Restoration/repair and painting of existing acceptable shop front
• Replacement of shop front which must be in character with the style of the building and character of the surroundings
• Repair to windows and doors or new windows and doors visible to the street including upper floor windows in certain circumstances
• Pointing
• Repainting
• Stonework repairs
• Signage
• Bird Proofing
• Repair or replacement of canopy
• Reinstatement of historical, original or traditional architectural features

Portfolio Holder for Coastal Regeneration, Councillor Dick Edginton, said: “This is an important initiative that will make Mablethorpe a more attractive place to live, visit and do business. If we can encourage more people to visit because the town is to be made more attractive, this can only benefit the local economy and create more opportunities for employment and trade.”

The deadline for applications into the scheme is October 1 5, 2010 with those successfully being awarded funding being announced on October 28, 2010. Works must be finished by February 28, 2011.

Town Centre Manager, Karen Froggatt, who is employed by the District Council, explained: “This is one of the first big initiatives by the Mablethorpe Area Partnership and if taken advantage of by local businesses, it will make a big difference to the appearance of the town. The appearance of shop fronts has been identified as a priority for improvement by the Partnership and I’m delighted the District Council has provided funding to allow this project to take place. It’s an opportunity I would encourage businesses in the area to seize.”

Businesses applying for funding will need to produce two quotes for each item of work they wish to complete and a copy of the lease agreement or proof of ownership of the premises.

Full details and application forms for the Shop Front Scheme are available in the Mablethorpe Town Centre Partnership section or by contacting Town Centre Manager, Karen Froggatt on 07197 628171 or e-mail Karen.froggatt@e-lindsey.gov.uk.