The make or break grant was awarded in a bid to boost recession-hit businesses.
A £10,000 make or break grant has been awarded to West Kensington and North End Road high street traders in a desperate attempt to boost recession-hit businesses.
Government funding will help reinvigorate an area which has seen more high street closures and empty shops which, according to local businesses, is keeping customers away.
The money aims to reintroduce these vacant premises back onto the retailing map, with plans for short lease opportunities such as pop-up shops, community schemes and attractive window dressing.
Cllr Nicholas Botterill, H&F Council Leader, said: “We want all of our high streets to be vibrant places, with flourishing local businesses.
“Unfortunately, there are a number of empty shops on North End Road and this grant will help the West Kensington Partnership to reinvigorate some of the more rundown shop units and ultimately boost trade.”
The rise of internet shopping and increasing dominance of multi-national corporations during a global economic slump has hit small businesses hard, with 20 shops closing every day across British high streets.
‘Town Team Partner’, part of the Mary Portas initiative, won the funding as an effort by the West Kensington Partnership of local businesses working alongside the council to save the struggling local high street stores
The West Kensington Partnership will also receive support through the Association of Town Centre Management including free membership and industry specialist support.
Partnership members include the W14 community website and local businesses like The Deli Bar and Ministry of Thrift.
Cllr Botterill added: “This very welcome Government grant will act as a real fillip for traders around West Kensington and North End Road.
For further information about the partnership or to get involved please contact Nicki Burgess on 020 8753 5695 or email [email protected]
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