BUSINESSES in Kelso are being urged to apply for the next round of funding available to improve shop frontages in the town centre.
Last year, 27 firms benefited from grant money offered by Sainsbury’s to help with the cost of new signage, painting, joinery and masonry work.
The next deadline for applications to the improvement grant scheme is on Friday, April 12, and a local councillor and chairman of Future Kelso has urged businesses yet to benefit to apply.
Councillor Alec Nicol said: “In the current financial climate we appreciate investment for businesses can be challenging.
“With the financial support from Sainsbury’s we have been able to offer a high grant rate with this scheme, which has really encouraged take-up.”
He added: “This scheme, along with the Kelso Townscape Heritage Initiative and the traffic management works, will have a real impact on the appearance of the town centre.”
Grants of up to £3,000 are available, based on 80 per cent of eligible costs.
Local Sainsbury’s store manager Sharon Matthews said: “We are delighted so many local businesses have taken advantage of this scheme to date.
“We try to make a positive difference to the area and we are sure the various shop front improvements will make the town centre even more attractive and appealing to visitors.”
To apply, email shopfronts@scotborders.gov.uk or contact 01835 826527 or 825563.