The government is investing £56 million in high street shops nationwide as part of their ‘Welcome Back Fund’, with Gedling borough set to receive almost £105,213 in an essential lifeline for many struggling businesses.
Councils can use the funding to hold street markets and festivals, boost the look and feel of their high streets, with more seating areas and street planting or less graffiti, and install new signage to help keep people safe as restrictions are lifted.
The fund has been set up to help boost the high street, which has been heavily impacted by three lockdowns during the last 12 months.
Gedling MP Tom Randall welcomed the fresh funding.
He said: “I know how difficult it has been for businesses on our high streets across Gedling Borough over the last year, and I am determined to secure them all the help they need to recover.
“That is why I am delighted that our area will receive £105,213 as part of the Conservative Government’s new Welcome Back Fund, which will help our high streets to re-open safely and successfully this Summer as restrictions lift.
“This will ensure that our high streets have the support they need as we move into recovery, and build back better from the pandemic.”
Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick outlined the reasons for setting up the Welcome Back Fund.
He said: “As we move to the next stage on the roadmap out of lockdown we are all looking forward to being reunited with friends and family outdoors and making a safe and happy return to our favourite shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants.
“Our Welcome Back Fund gives every city, town and high street support to prepare for a great summer. This funding will help councils and businesses to welcome shoppers, diners and tourists back safely.
“As soon as the roadmap allows, we need to get behind our local businesses and enjoy all that this country has to offer and that we’ve been missing so much.
“I’m allowing every pub in the country to erect a marquee in their garden for the whole summer as a one-off power to support our locals.”
