Phase One: Town Beautification Scheme
Town Centre Beautification Success: Transforming Communities with a Little Investment
Project Launch Date: 10 May 2023
Outcome Summary: November 2023
Torridge town beautification scheme awarded small grants to support existing independent businesses who would like to replace, improve or carry out repairs to their shop / building front or for other potential beautification projects within town centres.
This capital grants scheme is based on the £15 000 allocation to Torridge District Council within the UK Shared Prosperity fund investment plan for 2022/2023 . A maximum of a £1,000 grant to be awarded per business/application with a 50:50 match funding requirement. It applies to all towns in Torridge.
Click on the link below to find out more and apply: torridge.gov.uk/beautificationscheme
Funding Highlights
As the initial funding round concludes, an impressive £18k has been allocated across 24 applications. Business owners, equally committed to the cause, have matched this amount. The funding, sourced from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, has been strategically utilized to enhance the visual appeal of shops and business frontages throughout the district.
- Bideford Takes the Lead
- Seventeen applications were received from Bideford businesses, showcasing strong local engagement.
- Spread Across the District
- Great Torrington and Holsworthy each received three applications, contributing to district-wide revitalisation efforts.
- Appledore also benefited from a forward-looking application.
Success Stories
- Business Openings and Job Creation
- Three new businesses have successfully refurbished and occupied previously vacant premises.
- This initiative has led to the creation of five new jobs, with additional openings anticipated.
- Structural Improvements
- Beyond cosmetic enhancements, the scheme sometimes addressed structural defects, contributing to long-term sustainability.
Looking Ahead
With the current project yielding tangible results, a new scheme is anticipated in January 2024. This initiative aims to build on the existing success and further enhance the visual appeal of town centres. The positive impact is already evident, as businesses stand out during the festive season, showcasing the enduring benefits of the Town Centre Beautification project.