Cumberland Council is launching a new grants scheme to help transform King Street in Whitehaven.
Empty and dilapidated premises that cause an eyesore for the town centre have been identified as a key issue to tackle. The new Building Improvement Grants will support bringing vacant units back into use and improve the appearance of occupied properties.
Deputy Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Emma Williamson, has been leading on the development of a Whitehaven Masterplan, she said:
“We’ve listened to local residents and businesses and are taking steps to improve King Street. A new grants scheme has been set up and we’re urging the owners to get their applications in quick.
“Following the success of similar schemes in other parts of Cumberland, it is now time for King Street to step up and help make Whitehaven the best it can be.”
The grants scheme is open to owners or businesses with properties on King Street. They can apply for a grant to help with the costs of improvements to their properties.
For occupied properties owners or businesses can apply for a grant of 50% (up to a maximum of £5,000), for improvements to their shop fronts.
For vacant properties, grants of 50% (up to a maximum of £15,000) can be applied for, to improve the shop front and undertake internal works as well. The Cumberland Council grants are funded from Sellafield’s Social Impact Investment Fund.
Anyone interested in applying for a grant is asked to send their contact details and property address to [email protected]
The council is also taking proactive steps to contact the owners of properties which are in a state of disrepair with the council reserving the ability to take enforcement action to ensure necessary works are undertaken.
As King Street falls within a conservation area, they will also be having a crackdown on unauthorised alterations and signage.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer added:
“King Street falls within the conservation area, in the historic centre of Whitehaven. It is unacceptable that some property owners have let their properties deteriorate to such an extent that they are now ruining the amenity of the area for other local businesses and town centre visitors.
“We are hoping that the building grants will encourage owners to invest in their properties and improve the street for all.”