Retailers will benefit from £5,000 grants

Launching this month, the Retail Improvement Scheme is one of several emerging initiatives being developed by Ashfield District Council aimed at supporting economy in the area.

The scheme aims to encourage a high standard of physical improvements to buildings in retail areas throughout the district and is available to existing and new retailers who would like to improve their existing businesses premises or a vacant unit which they are moving into.

Businesses owner Emma Mee, from Hucknall, said she recognised how important this scheme is after securing a grant from a previous round of funding.

She said: “I applied to Ashfield District Council for a vacant shop grant, which enabled me to open my hair and beauty salon – Emma’s Cutting Edge – on Nabbs Lane,” she said.

“Both Ashfield and Mansfield District Councils gave good advice about the schemes available.

“The application process was straight forward and there was always someone from the council to talk to if I had any questions.”

“The grant helped get my business up and running - without it I would have really struggled to buy everything I needed to start my own business.

“I have been trading nearly a year now and the business is going from strength to strength.”

The grant can be used for a range of improvements including external repairs, improving internal shop fittings, displays or facilities, developing IT or painting exterior shop fronts.