New £900k scheme to help maintain city shopfronts

9 hours ago

Richard PriceWest Midlands

News image — The grants are to support businesses to improve the appearance of shopfronts

BBC A pedestrianised street with a large number of people walking along it. There are shops either side, with hanging baskets and bunting also visible. Some of the shops have A-boards outside of them. — The grants are to support businesses to improve the appearance of shopfronts

Local authority bosses have signed off on a scheme to help businesses restore and enhance shop fronts in Lichfield, Staffordshire.

The grants, from Lichfield District Council, will provide funding to support businesses in improving the appearance of shopfronts, helping to preserve the city's character and support a thriving local economy.

The authority has set aside £900,000 for the project over the next two years.

"High-quality shopfronts don't just improve how the city looks – they help attract visitors, increase footfall and support local businesses to grow," said councillor Richard Holland.

A pedestrianised street with market stalls and a large number of people walking around. There are buildings in the background, with a black and white building being the most prominent. The scene is set against a blue sky. — The authority is allocating £900,000 for the project over the next two years

"Lichfield's city centre is one of our greatest strengths, but we know some shopfronts no longer reflect the character we're proud of," he said.

"This scheme is about working with businesses to put that right.

"By offering financial support alongside clear guidance, we're making it easier for businesses to invest with confidence and play their part in enhancing our high street."

Improvements that could be undertaken as part of the programme included restoring traditional shopfront features, reinstating original architectural details and upgrading signage and lighting.

Where possible, the funding could also be used to provide better accessibility, while respecting the constraints of historic buildings.

The scheme will prioritise independent businesses and heritage-led improvements within Lichfield city centre's conservation area.

Alongside the grant scheme, the council is currently consulting on a new heritage shopfront design code to set out guidance on how shopfronts should look and feel in the future.

Follow BBC Stoke & Staffordshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.