The scheme emanates from the results of the public consultation on the Town Centre Master Plan held last year and is funded through developer contributions from the Lindley’s Lane housing development.

The main objective of the scheme is to improve the shopping environment and to support the local economy through the retention and improvement of existing shop and business units, and to encourage vacant units to be brought back into use. Eligible works may include complete shop-front replacements, improvements to a buildings facade including painting and re-rendering, and security measures such as burglar alarms and internal CCTV cameras.

Initial interest in the scheme has been high, and to-date six grants have been offered to individual businesses. One of those businesses, has transformed the former rundown BJ’s Playzone on Station Street, into Happy Days Play Den, a bright and modern indoor play area for children. Allan Whitelaw, the Council’s Planning Policy and Projects Manager commented: “This project has made a significant improvement to the general street scene, and has had a significant positive impact on environmental quality and business confidence.”

The Chairman of Ashfield District Council, Councillor Mrs. May Barsby commented, “The improvements demonstrate the success of the grant scheme. If business premises look this good, they attract more trade and that is good for the local economy of Kirkby.”

The scheme is planned to run for the next two years, however, funds are limited and may run out before that time. Applications will be assessed on a first come first served basis and those interested in apply for a grant should contact Debbie Broad or Julie Clayton in the Planning Policy and Projects Section at the Council on 01623 457382 or 457383.

BJ's Playzone (Happy Days Play Den) before ...

Happy Days Play Den after ...