Heritage shop frontage grant scheme
We are introducing a heritage shop frontage grant scheme to support the restoration and enhancement of traditional shopfronts across Lichfield city centre.
The scheme aims to help businesses improve the appearance and accessibility of their premises while protecting the historic character that makes Lichfield one of the country’s most distinctive cathedral cities.
By combining clear design guidance with targeted financial support, we are helping businesses invest in their properties in a way that strengthens the city centre for residents, visitors and the local economy.
Supporting businesses and protecting heritage
Lichfield’s historic streets and independent businesses are a key part of the city’s identity and appeal.
Over time, some shopfronts have been altered in ways that no longer reflect the historic character of the conservation area. The Heritage Shop Frontage Grant Scheme will help address this by supporting businesses to restore or improve their shopfronts using designs and materials that complement Lichfield’s traditional streetscape.
The scheme is designed to:
- Support independent businesses to invest in their premises
- Protect and enhance the character of the city centre conservation area
- Create a more attractive and welcoming high street
- Encourage more visitors and increase footfall for local businesses
How the scheme works
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 improvements will follow a new city centre shop front design code, which provides clear guidance on materials, design and colours to ensure improvements respect Lichfield’s historic environment.
Who can apply
The 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.
Why this matters
- Investing in the appearance of the high street benefits the whole community.
- Well-maintained and attractive shopfronts help create a welcoming city centre, encourage more people to visit and support the long-term success of local businesses.
- The scheme also helps protect the heritage and character that residents value and that attracts visitors to Lichfield each year.
Next steps
Subject to final approval, we will launch the scheme later this year. Businesses interested in improving their shopfronts will be able to register their interest and receive further guidance on how to apply.
Further information will be published on this page as the programme develops.