Hemsworth Shop Improvement Grant Scheme (SIGS)
Our Town Centre Regeneration Capital Fund has been set up to improve our town centres. And make them more appealing to residents, visitors and investors.
In Hemsworth, we’re delivering a Shop Improvement Grant Scheme. This will enhance the appearance and quality of shops in the town. And help attract more visitors to the area.
Improving the look of our high streets will encourage new businesses and retailers to move into any vacant shop units. Which will create new opportunities for residents and boost the local economy.
The scheme
We want the Wakefield district to look its very best. That’s why we’re offering grants up to £10,000 to improve shop units in Hemsworth, and other eligible areas.
Businesses can apply for grants towards the cost of making improvements. Grants can cover 80% of an improvement scheme. With a maximum award of £10,000.
The minimum amount a scheme can cost is £6,250. As the minimum grant is £5,000.
We’ve set up a Grants Panel to review applications. Ensuring all projects are in line with the scheme’s criteria.
The process
Stage 1
Applicants should check their premises are within the redline boundary. And read the guidance notes. This will help determine whether your business and planned work is eligible.
If you think you meet the criteria, email the Project Manager with a summary of your plans. They will contact you to discuss your scheme.
You will then be asked to submit an Expression of Interest form.
Stage 2
If your Expression of Interest shows your plans meet the criteria, you’ll be invited to submit a formal application.
As part of this, you will need:
- proof of ownership and/or occupation of the property
- information about whether the work needs any statutory consents
- like planning permission
- proof that you can pay your contribution towards the cost of the work
- three quotes for the work
The Project Manager will work with you to make sure your application is ready to submit.
Stage 3
The Grant Panel will review your application. They’ll decide whether to approve, reject or defer it. If approved, you’ll get a formal grant offer. Then you will enter a contract with Wakefield Council to deliver the work.
Stage 4
Once work is finished and paid for, we’ll visit your property. This is so we can inspect the work has been done in line with what was agreed. We’ll walk you through the claim form, so you can receive the grant money.
Drop-in sessions
We’re arranging some drop-in sessions about the scheme. You’ll be able to meet with officers to learn more about the scheme. And receive guidance on your own plans.
Dates will appear here when they’re available.