Enhancing Town Centres Through Property Improvement Grants
Monmouthshire County Council is actively seeking input from individuals and businesses interested in its Town Centre Property Improvement Grants programme. This initiative aims to revitalise town centres by providing financial support for property enhancements in key areas, ensuring they remain vibrant and welcoming spaces for residents and visitors alike.
The grants are available for properties located within the designated town centres of Abergavenny, Caldicot, Chepstow, Magor with Undy, Monmouth, and Usk. These areas have been identified as priorities for regeneration, with a focus on improving their overall appeal and functionality.
Key Priorities for Funding
The programme prioritises specific types of projects that contribute to the renewal of town centres. These include:
- Revitalising vacant commercial spaces: Projects that bring empty shops or offices back into use, helping to boost local economies and reduce urban decay.
- Improving deteriorating buildings: Funding is available for structures whose current condition significantly affects the townscape. This could involve structural repairs, aesthetic upgrades, or modernisation efforts.
- Restoring historic buildings: Special attention is given to preserving and enhancing historic properties, ensuring they remain part of the area’s cultural heritage while meeting modern needs.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the grants, applicants must meet certain conditions. Property owners or leaseholders must have a remaining lease of at least three years. For projects involving internal renovations to create new residential units, the lease must extend for at least seven years. This ensures that the improvements made will have a lasting impact on the community.
The exact boundaries of the eligible areas can be found on the council’s website. Interested parties are encouraged to review this information carefully before applying.
Application Process and Deadlines
Expressions of interest for the grants must be submitted by August 31, 2025. However, it is important to note that funding is limited, and there is no guarantee that it will still be available after this date. The council may close the application process earlier if all available funds are exhausted.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, meaning that those who submit their expressions of interest early may have a better chance of securing funding. This approach allows the council to allocate resources efficiently and respond to urgent needs as they arise.
How to Apply
For more information about the programme, including eligibility requirements and application procedures, interested parties can visit the council’s official website. The site provides detailed guidance on how to apply and what to expect throughout the process.
The Town Centre Property Improvement Grants scheme is funded through the Welsh Government’s Transforming Town Placemaking Grant and Monmouthshire County Council. This partnership highlights the shared commitment to creating thriving, sustainable communities across the region.
By supporting property improvements in town centres, the council hopes to foster economic growth, enhance public spaces, and ensure that these areas remain attractive and functional for future generations. Residents and business owners are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to contribute to the ongoing development of their local communities.