Over 100 businesses interested in new £1m town centre regeneration scheme in Cumbria

Over 100 businesses have shown their interest in a 'transformational' £1million scheme, launched by Copeland Mayor, Mike Starkie.

Local pubs, clubs, restaurants, shops, hairdressers and takeaways are amongst the businesses who are interested in scheme.

It offers grants of up to £5,000 for business improvements.

The Council has sent out 101 application packs in the first three weeks of the scheme opening.

These were sent following 40 enquires from businesses in Whitehaven, 31 from Millom, seven from Cleator Moor, eight from Egremont and 15 from villages in Copeland.

Copeland Borough Council has given £500k to improve shopfronts in Copeland’s towns and villages.

Grants are available for up to 50% of the value of the work required, up to a maximum amount of £5,000.

This 50% contribution means that local businesses will be made to invest in their premises to match-fund the grant.

Owners, landlords and tenants are able to apply for part of the funding.

Priority will be given to the four main town centres of Whitehaven, Cleator Moor, Egremont and Millom.

£375,000 of the fund has been allocated to improving the town centres.

£75,000 has been allocated to villages in Copeland and £50,000 for public realm improvements.