​Deadline for flagship Radcliffe shop-fronts scheme approaches

Businesses bidding for grants of up to £8k from the Radcliffe shop-front improvement scheme have until next Thursday to get their applications sorted.

The Bury Council scheme - designed to help drive business and improve the look and feel of the centre of Radcliffe - attracted more than 30 expressions of interest when it was launched in March.

A total of 21 independent businesses in parts of Church Street West, Stand Lane and Blackburn Street that met the scheme’s criteria were invited to apply. They have been asked to supply fuller details of the improvements they have in mind, plus costings, by Thursday June 14.

The shop-fronts scheme is part of a much wider programme of improvements to Radcliffe, including on-street planting, benches, new way-finding signage and work to make Radcliffe piazza a focal point for outdoor events. An expanded CCTV scheme has been installed and action on parking will also follow.

Councillor Rishi Shori, leader of Bury Council and councillor for Radcliffe West, said: “We’re really pleased that so many of Radcliffe’s independent traders came forward to express interest in the scheme, and that a good proportion of them were able to apply.

“This scheme will serve an important dual purpose. It not only supports the businesses themselves to drive custom, but will also help to improve the overall look and feel of Radcliffe town centre alongside the other investments we’re making.”

Jamie Walker, chair of the Radcliffe Regeneration Task Group, added: “With footfall in Radcliffe town centre on the up, this is the perfect time for existing businesses to capitalise.

“We’re really looking forward to seeing new signage up and in place, especially alongside all of the other on-street improvements. It’ll make a really positive difference to our town.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 7 June 2019.

Picture: At the scheme's launch were Helen Stuart of Radcliffe Flooring and Jamie Walker, chair of the Radcliffe Regeneration Task Group.