High street shops and businesses are set to benefit from a £30,000 boost to improve the look and feel of their frontages.
Thirty-six independent businesses, across the retail, hospitality and service sectors, will benefit from a scheme which improves the external appearance of their shop fronts.
The scheme covers the cost of labour, up to the value of £1,000 and supports practical measures such as cleaning, general exterior repairs and renovation.
Crop Hair Salon in Braintree has had the repairs done and is appreciating the benefits of its makeover. The salon has had its doors and windows repaired, sanded and repainted.
Millie Hennessy owner of Crop Hair Salon in Braintree said: “ We’ve been able to make the changes that we wanted to spruce up the place and we’re really happy with the quality of the repairs and the job. We’re pleased with the new colour and the results and we hope our customers are too. It’s been difficult for businesses to invest over the pandemic and this support has been a real boost.”
The Community Hub in Witham is also enjoying the benefits of the scheme. The hub has had its window frames and door repaired and repainted.
Tina Townsend, Chair of the Witham Community Hub, said: “We’d like to thank the council for their support in funding and organising this initiative in support of local charities, businesses and organisations. We’re really pleased with the improvements and job and we especially love the new colour, now dubbed as Tina’s Turquoise. It’s given the place a real lift and new lease of life.”
Steady Pace Café and Bakery in Halstead is pleased with its results.
Anja Bolcina owner of Steady Pace Café and Bakery in Halstead said: “We had the window frames and door repaired and repainted and a new awning installed which will provide the cafe with some shade as we move towards the summer months. We’re really pleased with the makeover, repairs and results. We are in the process of selling our business and we hope that the repairs will benefit the next business and its customers. This initiative supports local businesses and is a good way of bringing life back into our high streets.”
The initiative, administered by Braintree District Council, is supporting businesses in the towns and surrounding areas of Braintree, Witham and Halstead
The wider aim of the scheme is to support the growth of local businesses and create an inviting shopping environment for residents and visitors.
The funding comes from the government and forms one part of the plan to boost the economic recovery of high streets. The money set aside for this scheme has been fully allocated in support of businesses across the district.
Cllr Tom Cunningham, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth at Braintree District Council, said: “It’s wonderful seeing the improvements and how this package of support is making such a difference. With this initiative, we are supporting businesses on our high streets and in our town centres as well as improving the environment for residents and shoppers. The scheme is also creating jobs for local tradespeople which further supports and boosts our local economy.”
The scheme is now closed to new applications.