Plans have been announced to reduce the number of empty shops in Crewe.
Cheshire East Council has announced proposals for a new grant scheme as part of the government’s Towns Fund which has seen Crewe allocated £22.9m.
The project will be overseen by Crewe Town Board, and will include a grant scheme for businesses that take on vacant commercial premises in the town centre.
The money will also be used to provide business support and to carry out improvements to the appearance of the shop windows of vacant premises.
As well as reducing the number of empty commercial premises in Crewe, the scheme will help improve the overall look of the town centre, increase footfall, create new jobs and strengthen the mix of businesses.
Cllr Nick Mannion, chair of Cheshire East Council’s economy and growth committee, said: “Like many town centres across the country, Crewe town centre continues to be impacted by a number of factors, including increased competition from online shopping and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.”
He added: “It is expected that this project will support more than 50 businesses through grants and business support, as well as support the creation of more than 60 jobs.
“It will also complement a wider programme of projects, initiatives, and activities already underway, or planned, in other parts of the town centre, and form a key part of the comprehensive programme of regeneration.”
Doug Kinsman, chair of Crewe Town Board, said: “This is a fantastic project and one that will not only have direct benefits for the grant recipients and help them to start or grow their business, but will make a positive impact on the vibrancy of the town centre and support the local economy.”
Crewe and Nantwich MP Kieran Mullan said: “People have told me again and again we need to do something about the empty premises in Crewe town centre.
“I campaigned for us to get a town deal because I knew it was going to help us tackle problems like this. There are no quick fixes but this is making a start which is what levelling up is all about.”
The project is expected to open to applicants in the coming weeks.
Those wishing to register early interest in the scheme can do so by emailing: rohs@cheshireeast.gov.uk