Independent businesses can still apply for improvement work grants in Harwich and Dovercourt
A grant scheme from Tendring District Council has been extended
Independent businesses in Harwich and Dovercourt can still apply for grant funding to refurbish their premises.
The Harwich and Dovercourt Bay Business Grant Scheme, from Tendring District Council (TDC), offers match-funding of between ÂŁ100 and ÂŁ2,000 to businesses in the two town centres looking to enhance or improve their premises.
It had been set to close at the end of 2020, but has now been extended because of the impact of coronavirus.
So far four businesses have claimed grants totalling almost ÂŁ5,000 of the ÂŁ20,000 pot.
The money has been used for improvements such as new bathrooms, fresh decoration, window repairs and new flooring at the New Bell Inn, The Alma Inn, hair SHAC by the Pier and Universal Fitness.
Mary Newton, TDC cabinet member for business and economic development, encouraged businesses to apply:
"While lockdown is no doubt having an impact on many businesses, the closure period might be the ideal time to refresh your premises or building.
"These grants can help you install new signage, give a lick of paint to a tired shop, or get fresh lighting put in; all the sorts of things businesses will want to do to draw in customers once the current restrictions end.
"As well as supporting the business undergoing refurbishment, we hope local tradespeople will also benefit, and as such this grant scheme aligns so well with our Back to Business agenda."
The funding is primarily being targeted in Harwich and Dovercourt to help mark the 400th anniversary of the sailing of The Mayflower, the Harwich ship which carried the Pilgrims to America in 1620 – with the celebrations being delayed because of the pandemic.
The scheme is only open to independent traders and match-funding is on a 50:50 basis.
Businesses must cover the cost of works up front, and the grant will be paid retrospectively upon successful completion of the work.
There is more information and application forms online.