Sharpen Your Skills

Two grant schemes helping town centre move foreward

0 Comments | Northern Echo, Jul 28, 2010 | by Catherine Priestley

A PART of a town which traders feared would be forgotten when a supermarket relocated will receive a triple boost.

Business people in the north of Bishop Auckland were concerned for their future when Asda moved from the Newgate Centre to a superstore at the former Wilson’s Forge site in 2002.

Like many small town centres, Bishop Auckland’s has suffered as a result of the economic downturn, with the north of the town being badly hit.

But it is hoped that two grants schemes and plans by awell-known high street retailer to move in will turn round its fortunes.

Town mayor and cafe owner Councillor Lesley Zai, said: “I think we’ve lived through the fears and bad times after Asda moved.

“The reality is that there are empty shops up and down the town. I hope, however, that we’ve come through the worst. Some of the empty shops are now starting to fill, and initiatives such as these can only help to keep pushing inthe right direction.”

The funding schemes are part of Durham County Council’s overall regeneration plan for the town, and four retailers have already signed up.

Grants of up to [pounds]20,000 are available to help companies to improve their premises in the historic Fore Bondgate area, and small businesses to get established.

Regeneration officer Ross Cowling said: “We hope the grants will build on the small number of niche retailers thriving on Fore Bondgate and, in doing so, create further job opportunities, and build on visitor numbers, boosting the whole town economy.”

Cabinet member for regeneration and economic development, Councillor Neil Foster, said: “Fore Bondgate is steeped in history and has a really unique character that many people already enjoy as part of their visit to this vibrant town centre.

“Quite simply, we want to make it even better, while retaining its unique atmosphere.”

The council’s regeneration team will support fledgling businesses for a year, to give them a stronger chance of survival.

Just around the corner from Fore Bondgate, health supplies firm Holland and Barrett hopes to move into 14 Newgate Street.

The company has applied to the county council for planning permission to alter one of two Greggs bakery outlets in the town.

For information on the targeted buildings initiative call Mr Cowling on 01388-761134 or email ross.cowling@durham.gov.uk For for the empty shops initiative, call Joanne Urquhart on 01207-218063 or email joanne.urquhart@durham.gov.uk.