Up to £20,000 in grants available to Cambridgeshire retailers in high street rejuvenation scheme

A new £200,000 grant scheme has been unveiled to support projects that boost the high streets across South Cambridgeshire.

The Improving the High Street Grants of between £5,000 to £20,000 per project are available to rural businesses, community groups and parish councils across the district.

The scheme aims to improve the look of local high streets, promote rejuvenation, encourage residents to shop locally and attract more local businesses to the area.

The grant can cover a wide range of projects such as renovating shop fronts, street art, new benches, hanging baskets, interactive family fun trails, street cleaning, local maps or new signs.

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority is the lead authority for the fund, while South Cambridgeshire District Council is responsible for grant scheme delivery and allocation. The scheme is part of the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

“As a council we are committed to breathing new life into our high streets. By supporting local businesses, enhancing public spaces, and making our villages and towns more accessible and vibrant, we can create a thriving hub where residents and visitors alike feel proud to shop, work, and connect,” Cllr Peter McDonald, South Cambridgeshire District Council’s lead cabinet member for economic development, said

“This rejuvenation is not just about revitalising storefronts; it's about building a stronger, more resilient local economy that reflects the heart of our community.”

The project aims to increase footfall and trading for local businesses as well as boosting pride in place for local communities. Grants are available to small independent businesses operating within South Cambridgeshire high streets.

Business applicants must be:

• A small, independent business (including Community Interest Companies) which operates within the High Street within South Cambridgeshire.
• Businesses will be eligible to apply if they can answer yes to the following questions; can the shop be seen clearly from the street? Do you anticipate that the change will make a positive difference to the surrounding area?

All successful applicants will be required to report on their progress from the date of receipt of funds and at quarterly intervals. Projects must set out how they will measure and report how they have met the objectives.

The first of three application windows is now open until 10 November. The second application window will open on 14 November and close on 15 December. The third and final application window will open on 19 December and close on 19 January next year.

The application process will run until all the funds have been allocated. Funds may run out before the end of the application windows mentioned above, so those interested are encouraged to get applications in promptly.

All funds must be spent by 31 March 2025.

To find out more and apply visit the South Cambridgeshire District Council High Street grant webpage or email: sharedprosperityfund@scambs.gov.uk