Design codes

Lichfield City Centre - Shopfront Regeneration Scheme

We are delivering a Shopfront Regeneration Programme to enhance the quality, appearance and character of shopfronts across Lichfield city centre.

This programme brings together two key elements:

• A Shopfront Design Code – setting clear guidance for high-quality, well-designed shopfronts
• A Heritage Shopfront Grant Scheme – providing financial support to help businesses deliver improvements

Together, these will help protect Lichfield’s historic character while supporting a vibrant and successful city centre.

We’re shaping a new Shopfront Design Code for Lichfield city centre, and we’d love to hear your views - share your thoughts in the consultation.

Why this matters

Lichfield’s historic streets and independent businesses are a key part of the city’s identity and appeal.

However, over time, some shopfronts have been altered in ways that no longer reflect the character of the conservation area.

Improving the quality and consistency of shopfronts will:

• Protect and enhance the city’s historic environment
• Create a more attractive and welcoming high street
• Encourage more visitors and increase footfall
• Support the long-term success of local businesses

Shopfront Design Code

The Shopfront Design Code is at the heart of this programme.

It provides clear guidance on how shopfronts should be designed, repaired or replaced, including:

• Appropriate materials and detailing
• Proportions and layout
• Signage, lighting and colour palettes
• Accessibility considerations

The Design Code will guide future improvements and help ensure all changes contribute positively to Lichfield’s historic streetscape.

Heritage Shopfront Grant Scheme

To support delivery of the Design Code, we are introducing a Heritage Shopfront Grant Scheme.

The scheme will provide match-funded grants to help eligible businesses restore or enhance their shopfronts.

Funding can support improvements such as:

• Restoring traditional timber shopfronts
• Reinstating historic architectural features such as fascias, pilasters and stall risers
• Installing heritage-appropriate signage and lighting
• Removing modern alterations that detract from historic character
• Improving accessibility where appropriate

All funded improvements must align with the Shopfront Design Code.

Supporting businesses and protecting heritage

This programme is designed to support businesses while safeguarding what makes Lichfield unique.

It will:

• Support independent businesses to invest in their premises
• Protect and enhance the city centre conservation area
• Improve the overall look and feel of the high street
• Strengthen Lichfield’s appeal as a place to live, visit and invest

Who can apply

The grant scheme is primarily aimed at:

• Independent businesses and SMEs
• Property owners and leaseholders of ground-floor commercial premises
• Businesses located within the Lichfield City Centre Conservation Area

Further details about eligibility, application criteria and the application process will be published once the scheme formally launches.

How it works

• The Design Code sets the standard
• The Grant Scheme helps fund improvements

This ensures shopfront changes are both high quality and achievable, creating lasting improvements across the city centre.

Why this investment matters

Investing in the appearance of the high street benefits the whole community.

Well-maintained and attractive shopfronts help create a welcoming environment, encourage more people to visit and support local businesses.

The programme also helps protect the heritage and character that residents value and that attracts visitors to Lichfield each year.