Business owners in East Suffolk are being invited to apply for funding from East Suffolk Council to help them to make improvements to their security.
Applications open this week (week commencing Monday 16 February) for businesses to apply for funding from the High Street Business Security Improvement Grant Scheme, with grants up to £2,000 offered to those who can cover up to half of the total cost of the improvements.
The funding delivered by the East Suffolk Community Safety Partnership could be used to make security updates such as upgrading locks, installing alarm systems, security lighting or CCTV, reinforcing single-glazed windows, improving visibility or creating security with gates or shutters.
Caroline Topping, Leader of East Suffolk Council and cabinet member for Economic Development and Transport said: “We’re welcoming applications from businesses who are looking to make security improvements that will have a lasting impact to the staff and visitors of their premises.
“We want to reassure businesses, residents and visitors that this funding isn’t being distributed in response to safety concerns, but it’s become available to give both business owners and the public the confidence to continue to shop on our high streets that are so vital to our thriving economy here in East Suffolk.
“As well as the funding, the scheme offers reassurance to businesses that support and advice is available from our Communities team and Suffolk Police to help provide guidance on ways to improve their security and public perception of safety.”
Priority will be given to businesses based in 12 towns in the district, but applications will also be considered from smaller areas:
- Aldeburgh
- Beccles
- Bungay
- Felixstowe
- Framlingham
- Halesworth
- Leiston
- Lowestoft
- Saxmundham
- Southwold
- Wickham Market
- Woodbridge
Funding will be allocated to applicants who successfully provide proof of ownership or occupancy of their business, evidence of necessary permissions if this is applicable, proof of ability to fund their share of the improvement costs and two quotes for the proposed works.
The scheme is open to sole traders, limited companies, business partnerships, landlords of commercial high street space, not-for-profit community, voluntary or business groups, voluntary organisations or social enterprises.
The closing date for applications is Monday 30 March, with decisions on successful applications made by a panel in April.