Proposal
The Building Grant Upgrade Scheme offers match-funded grants to help improve shopfronts and buildings in Leigh town centre. This is a central government funded project, focused in the conservation area in Bradshawgate, that aims to restore historic features and make the town centre a more attractive and lively place.
The project is planned to complete in March 2026, and all grant funding must be spent by then.
In the autumn of 2024 we opened our expression of interest process where property owners and businesses could apply for inclusion within the grant scheme.
We received more interest than we expected, with over 60 business owners showing a passion for investing in their properties.
Each application was assessed against a strict criteria. The 27 properties that have been selected are of good quality and will enhance the town centre.
Engagement
A public drop-in day was hosted at Book-Cycle in November 2024, where members of the public discussed the scheme and shared their thoughts and memories about Leigh.
There has been ongoing engagement with private businesses, first to encourage applications and support from the team and its partners at Creative Heritage to guide applicants through the process.
Next steps
The expression of interest phase has now closed and our project managers, Creative Heritage consultants will be working with the successful 27 properties to bring their projects forward.
Funding of up to 90% is available for conservation-led repairs and improvements to commercial properties.
The project is planned to be completed in March 2026, and all grant funding must be spent by then, work began in the autumn of 2025.
What types of works can receive funding?
- Shopfronts and traditional signwriting
- Enhancing existing historic features e.g. windows, doors, brickwork, timber details, etc
- High level joinery
- Awnings.
Works not eligible for a grant
- Complete re-roofing and internal refurbishment
- Work that has already begun
- Works that do not have the relevant planning approval (and listed building consent where applicable).