New funding programme to bring Wiltshire town centres to life

Activating Places grants, funded through the Wiltshire Towns Programme, will support a range of projects designed to increase footfall, encourage people to spend time in town centres and makeuse of vacant premises. 

The programme offers funding through three routes: 

• Events grants of £5,000 to £12,500 to support festivals, markets, cultural events, performances and community celebrations. 

• Pop-up and temporary use grants of between £1,000 and £3,000 to help businesses and organisations test ideas and make short-term use of vacant town centre premises. 

• Long-term occupation grants of between £5,000 and £12,500 to support businesses and organisations taking on vacant premises through a lease. 

A total of £220,000 is available, with grants aimed at creating vibrant, active town centres that attract visitors, support businesses and strengthen local communities. The programme builds onthe wider Wiltshire Towns Programme, which is investing in initiatives to help town centres adapt, grow and thrive. 

Cllr Helen Belcher, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Enterprise and Regeneration, said: “Successful town centres offer much more than shopping. They are places where people meet, spendtime, take part in activities and enjoy community life. 

“Activating Places will help bring new events, ideas and opportunities to our town centres, while also supporting businesses and organisations to make use of empty premises. We want to encourageinnovation, support local enterprise and create more reasons for people to visit and enjoy our town centres.” 

Expressions of interest are welcomed from registered businesses, sole traders, charities, community interest companies, social enterprises and town and parish councils. Applicants must meet theeligibility criteria and projects must be located within eligible town centre areas covered by the programme. 

To find out more about the grants and to apply, go to: www.wiltshire.gov.uk/wiltshire-towns-programme