Shop Front Improvement Scheme

The Oadby and Wigston Borough Council Shop Front Improvement scheme is aimed at businesses in the borough to make improvements to their shop fronts. Grants of up to £2,000 are available, to be matched by the applicant, for a number of improvements. This project is being funded by the UK Government through its Shared Prosperity Funding.

The scheme will operate across the borough of Oadby and Wigston. This scheme previously was restricted to the town centres. We are now opening applications across the whole of the borough.

This scheme aims to improve shop fronts in the borough as a means of supporting the growth of local businesses, improving the local environment and raising the image of the shops and services amongst locals and visitors.

You can download the full information and eligibility criteria relating to the scheme here:

The following work will generally be considered as eligible for support. It is by no means an exhaustive list and all proposed works will be considered on a case by case basis.

• External lighting
• New shop fronts
• Repainting of shop fronts in suitable colours
• Signage
• Internal security grilles and/or security glazing
• Repair and reinstatement of all or any part of a shop front fixture that is visible from the street, including the first and second floor of premises where these are in commercial use

Examples of non-eligible works:

• Lighting within window displays
• Window display equipment
• Pedestrian access improvements
• Externally mounted security features
• Repair and reinstatement of guttering and downpipes
• Professional fees associated with the delivery of the project such as planning application fees, consultancy fees, advisory fees etc.

In order to consider your application we require the following to be submitted:

• A completed application form. You must complete the application form as this contains basic information about your proposal.
• Sketch drawings of your proposed work and a photo of how it looks now.
• Proof of ownership/lease. If you do not own the property, you will need to provide proof that you have permission from the owner to carry out the works. The building owner should countersign your application to show that they have given permission for the works to be carried out.
• Three comparable cost estimates including fees.

You can download the application form here:

Once completed the form and relevant information should be emailed to ukspf@oadby-wigston.gov.uk

A decision on your application will then be made as soon as possible.

This is a discretionary grant to be offered on a first come, first served basis, subject to applications meeting the criteria for eligible works. There is also a finite amount of funding available annually so once committed the fund will close until the next Financial Year.