BRIDGWATER Town Team has announced that more grants have been made available to local shopkeepers as part of their an on-going drive to invigorate and promote Bridgwater town centre.

Jointly funded by Sedgemoor District Council and Bridgwater Town Council, there are 10 new grants available.

These will be offered on a ‘first come first served’ basis for independent retail/service property owners.

The successful applicants will receive a match-funded grant of up to £200 to be used on permanent visual improvements to retail premises. This means a business spending a minimum of £400 will receive a maximum of £200 in grant aid.

A spokesman for the Town Team said: “This initiative aims to encourage new and existing retail/service businesses to enrich their retail offering in order to help drive shoppers to the town centre and can be used in a variety of ways.

“Perhaps the shop front or signage could be upgraded, or maybe a general enhancement to kerb appeal is required.

“Alternatively, maybe some improvements needs to be made to the layout of the interior of the shop or repairs are required.

“These are just one of a series of grants that have been made available, and to date has been of direct benefit to around 30 local businesses in order to modernise their shops.”

For further information on the grants including how to apply, or to request an application form get in touch with veronica.kedge@sedgemoor.gov.uk or call 01278-435396.