Businesses and property owners are being invited to play their part in enhancing Lichfield city centre, as Expressions of Interest open for a new £400,000 Heritage Shopfront Grant Scheme.
First announced by Lichfield District Council earlier this year, the scheme offers grants of up to £30,000 to support eligible improvements to shopfronts within the Lichfield City Centre Conservation Area.
The investment aims to protect the city's historic character while helping businesses create attractive, welcoming and accessible frontages that encourage people to spend more time in the city centre and support the local economy.
Projects could include restoring traditional shopfronts, reinstating original architectural features, replacing inappropriate modern additions, introducing heritage-appropriate signage and lighting, improving accessibility and carrying out high-quality external decoration.
The scheme is open to eligible freehold property owners, leaseholders with their landlord's consent, independent businesses, social enterprises and community-run businesses.
Councillor Richard Holland, Cabinet Member for High Street and Economic Development, said:
“The Heritage Shopfront Grant Scheme supports independent traders in Lichfield city centre to improve their shopfronts while preserving the historic character.
“Lichfield’s distinctive character and independent businesses are a huge part of what makes our city centre such a special place.
“This scheme is a positive investment in its future. It will give businesses and property owners practical support to improve their premises, restore important historic features and create shopfronts that contribute positively to the wider city centre.
“We want to work with local businesses to protect what people love about Lichfield while encouraging new investment and helping the city centre continue to thrive.
“Whether you are considering a full restoration or a smaller improvement to signage, lighting or accessibility, I would encourage you to read the guidance, talk to our team and submit an Expression of Interest.”
The scheme has a simple two-stage application process, beginning with a short Expression of Interest. Applicants do not need detailed designs or full costings at this initial stage.
Businesses and property owners are encouraged to read the full guidance before submitting their interest and must not begin any work before receiving written approval.
Find out more and submit an Expression of Interest at: https://www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/planning/shopfront-grant-scheme
For help or an initial conversation about a proposal, email shopfrontregeneration@lichfielddc.gov.uk.