Vacant shop scheme introduced to Havant town centre as council looks to increase footfall
A vacant shop scheme that has proven successful in other areas is being introduced to Havant town centre.
Havant Borough Council is hoping the scheme, which offers grants of £1,000 to £50,000 to help businesses refurbish vacant units, will help bring more footfall to the area.
Councillor Gillian Harris, Cabinet Lead for Regeneration and Communities, said: “Supporting businesses to get established is key to revitalising town centres and so I am very pleased we are able to do this in Havant.
“Grants like these can really make the difference in helping to overcome the upfront costs of setting up, so that businesses can focus on creating vibrant spaces for people to meet, shop and enjoy themselves.”
The scheme has already been introduced in Waterlooville and Leigh Park as part of regeneration works. The likes of Babyccinos, Barber Beauty Paws, The Exchange, Mini Town, and Revive Wellness benefitted from the scheme in Waterlooville as a number of vacant units were filled in Wellington Way.
In Leigh Park, grants were awarded to Viking Prints, The Recovery Hub, Just Sweetz and Treatz, PFM Gym and Citizens Advice.
The council are calling for any new or existing businesses to express their interest in the scheme, which will open from Monday, January 19.
Cllr Harris said: "We welcome expressions of interest from all types of businesses — including retail, leisure, cultural, entertainment, and health providers."
More details on the scheme can be found on the Havant Borough Council website.