Fifteen new businesses will be opening on local high streets across the region, thanks to over £200,000 funding through South Gloucestershire Council’s Vacant Unit Grant Scheme.
Through the scheme, grants have been approved for new businesses that will bring financial services, food and beverage, health and beauty, home and lifestyle, entertainment and leisure services to individual high streets across the region.
The first business to open following a grant award is Creative Spaces at 39 High Street, Staple Hill, which will be running craft and creative workshops and courses.
High streets are more than just shopping destinations; they are important community spaces where local people go to shop, socialise, work, access services or simply take a moment to pause and watch the world go by.
Across South Gloucestershire, there are eight high street areas, each with its own unique identity and character, with diverse offerings that reflect the character and culture of the area. The new businesses that will be opening over the coming months will add to the vibrancy and diversity of these high streets.
Councillor Ian Boulton, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills, Employment and Business said: “It’s fantastic to have been able to support 14 new businesses to open their doors on our high streets through the Vacant Unit Grant Scheme.
“South Gloucestershire Council is committed to supporting businesses at every stage of their journey, whether they are new start-ups or established businesses looking to expand. The Vacant Unit Grant Scheme is just one of the many ways we help businesses grow and thrive.
“By choosing to shop locally, residents contribute to the sustainability and prosperity of South Gloucestershire. I would encourage everyone to visit their local high streets, support these new ventures, and be part of our community’s growth.”
The Vacant Unit Grant Scheme, funded by the West of England Combined Authority through the UKSPF, administered by the West of England Combined Authority, offered support to landlords to bring vacant units back into use and new businesses to move into a vacant commercial unit.
To find out more about other business support opportunities available in South Gloucestershire visit: www.southglos.gov.uk/investsouthglos
