A SCHEME providing £400,000 to help enhance shopfronts in Lichfield city centre has officially launched.
Expressions of interest are being invited from business and property owners for the Heritage Shopfront Grants.
The Lichfield District Council initiative offers up to £30,000 towards eligible improvements within the Lichfield City Centre Conservation Area.
The authority said the initiative aimed 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 signage and lighting, improving accessibility and carrying out 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.
Cllr Richard Holland, cabinet member for high street and economic development, said:
"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."
For more details on submitting an expression of interest, visit the Lichfield District Council website. For an initial conversation and help about drawing up a proposal, email shopfrontregeneration@lichfielddc.gov.uk.
