Agenda item

William Hawkins, Economic Development Officer, introduced the report which presented the first applications for the Storefront Improvement Grant Scheme. The purpose of the scheme was to support independent retailers through the provision of grants in order to improve the physical appearance of their high street stores. These projects can range from redecoration to new or replacement physical features such as signage and awnings

The Storefront Improvement Grants which was recommended for consideration and approval by the Panel is set out below:-

The Economic Development Officer presented the application from Decorus London Ltd who sought the grant to complete a redecoration and repair of the existing storefront.

A Member sought clarification on a differences contained in the report, specifically whether the grant is sought for a complete redecoration of the storefront or whether if it will be used to add a layer of paint to the existing storefront.

The Economic Development Officer explained that some sections of the storefront have become dilapidated and require new wooden panelling however there are some sections of the storefront that only require a new coat of paint.

Members were supportive of both Storefront Grant applications.

The Chairman noted Paragraph 6 of the report and sought the opinions of Members on how to approach the matter of the scheme’s unallocated funding.

The Vice-Chairman believed that it would be best to continue to offer the scheme to the businesses in the area and then, if unallocated after 6 months, promote the scheme to other areas in the District.

A Member enquired whether the East Grinstead Business Association has been contacted.

Mark Healy, Regeneration and Economy Programme Manager, explained that there was concerns raised before the scheme started that open-bidding would dilute the impact of the scheme; the view that was arrived at was a focus on one area. He confirmed that the team did seek to engage with the Town Council and the Business Association however those who were spoken to were not engaged with businesses in the retail sector.

The Member expressed that he was happy to see the unallocated funding rolled over until everyone sees the benefit of the scheme.

The Vice-Chairman questioned whether there would be the possibility of match-funding grants.

The Regeneration and Economy Programme Manager clarified that West Sussex County Council would have to agree any measure of flexibility to the scheme.

The Chairman expressed support for rolling over the unallocated funding to the next round of funding for the scheme.

The Panel agreed to the rolling over of the unallocated funding to the next round of funding for the scheme.

RESOLVED

The Cabinet Grants Panel agreed that:

1. A Storefront Improvement Grant of £1,950 be granted to David Foreman Carpets Ltd to install new signage and redecorate the existing storefront.

2. A Storefront Improvement Grant of £2,000 be granted to Decorus London Ltd to complete a redecoration and repair of the existing storefront.

3. The remaining unallocated Storefront Improvement Grant funding be rolled over to the next round of funding for the scheme.