Shop Improvements

Barnard Castle Vision launched its Shop Improvement Grant Scheme in April 2009, and has invested over £160,000 with over 30 businesses, creating 20 jobs and 9 new businesses. 

There are two different types of grants within the scheme -

Conservation and Restoration to existing or empty premises - to replace, conserve or restore the building frontages(or elements of the frontage) to business premises in the centre of the town. Where the premises is empty grant funds can cover interior restoration. This fund has been capped at £10,000 and applications will be reviewed on a first come, first served basis.  The grants are for 60% of the total costs and to the maximum limit.

Repair Grant - this grant provides fudns to repair frontages and includes wood work repairs, glass replacement, signage and paintwork. Grants are to a maximum of £1,000 on the basis of a grant rate of 50% of the total costs.

In 2012 we plan to launch a new grant to support existing businesses with a review and makeover. This will offer more established businesses the opportunity to review their current business, identify opportunities and implement changes that may include redeveloping the interior and exterior of their premises.