A successful Trafford Council scheme helping traders enhance their premises has been expanded to include more local high streets.
Businesses in Timperley and Hale can now apply for grants alongside those in Altrincham, Sale, Stretford, Urmston and Sale Moor.
The Government-funded Trafford Town Centre Shop Improvement Grant Scheme offers up to £10,000 in match-funding to eligible businesses.
A total of £220,000 is available from Greater Manchester Combined Authority, which manages the city-region's Government funding allocation.
New and established ground floor retail businesses can apply for grants on the condition they match the funding from their own resources. The money can be used for:
- Building and renovation works
- Measures to help meet low carbon targets
- Improvements to make premises more accessible to people with disabilities
The scheme aims to support both new start-ups and help existing businesses thrive, creating new jobs and improving economic growth across Trafford.
Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council's Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration, said: "This is a great opportunity for traders to invest in their shop fronts, make their businesses more accessible, more sustainable and help our high streets look and feel fantastic."
The initiative has already shown impressive results, helping 41 businesses create 28 new full-time equivalent jobs, improving over 2,200 square meters of commercial floorspace and saving 45,000kg of carbon.
Previous recipients have seen significant benefits. Claire Blezard of Y Not in Urmston received £10,000 for new double-glazed bifold doors, flooring and heating, which improved her venue's energy performance from an E to B rating. The Northern Light Cinema in Sale used their grant for high-quality, sustainable furnishings and decoration.
The application process has been streamlined and simplified. Interested businesses should apply as soon as possible, as the deadline is 30 June 2025, or when all funding is awarded. For more information, contact business@trafford.gov.uk.
