GRANTS TO HELP FILL UP EMPTY SHOPS

Grants of up to £2,500 are being offered to encourage businesses to move into vacant shops in the centres of Margate and Ramsgate.

The money, which has been given to Thanet District Council by the government, aims to boost town centres and bring empty shops back into use.

The Business Support Grants are limited and those applicants that best fit the criteria will have a better chance of funding. The grants can be used to fund a number of things, including the fit-out of the premises, buying assets such as equipment, and cleaning and decorating the premises.

Businesses must set up in property that has been empty for at least a month and will need to be accessible to the public and have a sound business plan. The money cannot be used for day to day management or administration costs and will be aimed at specific business types. Support is not available to high street chains or if public funding has already been used to refurbish the empty unit.

Cllr. Roger Latchford, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, said: "This money gives us the chance to bring some of the empty shops in Margate and Ramsgate back into use. We want to see new facilities being provided for both residents and visitors, which will also bring much-needed jobs back into our town centres. We want to use this money to give small businesses a boost and, at the same time, stop empty shops becoming an eyesore. I'm sure this will be a popular scheme and we look forward to seeing lots of applications coming forward."

Applications must be made before any work starts. Applications forms are available at http://www.thanet.gov.uk/business.aspx You can find out more about the scheme and whether your business would be eligible by contacting Louise Askew, Economic Development Officer, on 01843 577178 or by e-mailing louise.askew@thanet.gov.uk