Village shops in South Shropshire are invited to apply for a grant of up to £1¸500

Village shops in South Shropshire are invited to apply for a grant of up to £1,500 by South Shropshire District Council

"Post Office closure proposals are just the latest threat that shops in our rural communities have to contend with," says Leader of South Shropshire District Council, Cecilia Motley.

"We understand the importance of the village shop to a rural community, and have set aside £25,000 for a Village Shops Grants Scheme, as part of a wider package to support small rural retail businesses. Our Revenue Services team is already approaching small businesses across South Shropshire reminding them of their eligibility for business rate relief, and we're working with small local businesses, including retailers, to ensure that they get the maximum rate relief available."

"But the Council understands the value of help in the form of hard cash to projects, so is offering up to £1,500 in funding towards projects that improve the commercial viability and sustainability of an existing or proposed village shop. We're as keen to put money into a wider funding package that might lead to the opening of a new shop, perhaps as a Community Venture, as we are to help an existing small business underpin its long-term viability."

The Council's Head of Regeneration and Partnerships, Samantha Hine, will be making contact with shops shortly. To be eligible, a business must either be providing or planning to provide the only village outlet that sells food and/or household products in a village or settlement.

Up to £1,500 per business is available, normally up to a maximum of half the eligible costs, although in exceptional circumstances, funding of up to 75 percent of eligible costs maybe available.

Eligible projects might include:

• Providing, replacing or upgrading essential equipment
• Improving the internal or external appearance of the shop
• Improving access to the shop
• Modernising and improving the sales area
• Introducing a new line or service
• Improving security
• Modernising the business

Expenditure that is not eligible for funding under this grant scheme include:

• General repair work
• Routine maintenance
• Decorating
• Running costs
• Stock purchases
• Staff costs

"Please get in touch if you think your business may be eligible, or if you are considering setting up a new venture in one of our rural communities," said Sam Hine, the Council's Head of Regeneration and Partnerships. "We want to ensure all eligible outlets get the opportunity to apply for the funding available. We're hoping to make decisions within 25 working days of receiving an application."

Issued by South Shropshire District Council - 27 May 2008