Town Centre Shopfront Improvement Scheme for Antrim and Newtownabbey

This programme is designed to enhance the appearance of commercial areas in designated town centres

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, in partnership with the Department for Communities (DfC), has developed the Town Centre Shopfront Improvement Programme, which is designed to enhance the appearance of commercial areas in designated town centres across the borough.

The programme aims to support local business growth, enhance the local environment and transform how residents and visitors perceive town centres, with the aim of increasing footfall and trade.

The Town Centre Shopfront Improvement Programme will be implemented in phases over the next two financial years (2024-25/2025-26), subject to funding availability.

• Phase 1 - Ballyclare and Randalstown
• Phase 2 – Antrim, Crumlin and Glengormley

Funding Available

Businesses/property owners can apply for a grant to carry out external physical improvements to their commercial property.

The available grant will cover 80% of eligible costs but will be capped at a maximum value of £4,999, regardless of overall project costs. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum contribution of 20% of the overall project costs.

The programme is open to premises with commercial shop-frontage facing the street within the town centres.

Drop-In Sessions

To support the scheme, drop-in sessions have been arranged (no appointment necessary) for business owners to raise questions or queries.

• Tuesday 20 August 2024, midday to 6pm - Ballyclare Town Hall
• Thursday 22 August 2024, 1pm to 6pm - Arches Community Hall, Randalstown

Phase 2 covering Antrim, Crumlin and Glengormley will launch in Autumn 2024. Drop-in sessions for these areas will also be announced then.

Find out more about the Town Centre Shopfront Improvement Programme.

First published 8 July 2024