BUSINESS is blooming for a North-east florist thanks to help from a grants scheme. Francesca Waring launched Star Flowers in Barnard Castle four years ago.
But she has now moved to a shop on the town’s main street - Horsemarket - from a smaller unit on Star Yard, where she originally established the business.
Francesca made use of the Shop Front grant scheme - run by Barnard Castle Vision - which was extended in the autumn of last year to provide small repairs grants and to help a business take over an empty premises.
The shop she now occupies had been empty for some months, but the interior has been fitted to suit her needs. Exterior painting and window vinyls will complete the shop’s appearance, and this work will be completed when warmer weather allows.
The Shop Front Improvement Grant Scheme was established in April 2009 to offer retailers in Barnard Castle the chance to gain financial aid to restore and improve the look of their premises, both inside and out.
In response to difficulties faced by retailers in the current economic climate, the scheme was extended in October to incorporate two new grants - one a small repairs grant to assist with minor works such as joinery repairs and painting to improve the appearance of premises and the second grant is to assist with re-modeling empty shops that have a new tenant ready to occupy the premises.
Further funding will be made available from April this year.
Annalisa Ward, co-ordinator of the Barney Guild - a group of Barnard Castle businesses who meet regularly to share best practice and improve the retail offer the town, said: “The new Star Flowers is a great addition to our town’s high street - it is good to watch an independent business grow.
“We know that refitting a shop can be a considerable expense, but the grants are available to help and the end result will be a smarter, more welcoming, and ultimately more profitable retail centre for Barnard Castle.
“We are currently aware of a number of independent businesses interested in premises in Barnard Castle, and are ensuring they know of the grants available to help.
“Alongside these, there are a number of on-going schemes aimed at promoting Barnard Castle as a shopping destination and encouraging people to visit the town.
“Barney Guild will continue to work with the retailers to ensure the vibrancy of our historic market town.”
Francesca said: “The grants have made the move so much more affordable, and I’m so glad I was encouraged to apply.
“I was originally very cautious, believing that grants are hard to secure and involve hours of work to complete the form.
“Barney Guild guided me through the straightforward application and the grant was quickly approved.
“It’s a simple but effective scheme, and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
“Barnard Castle is a town with masses of potential and I believe we’ll watch it flourish in the next few years. The grants are available to support the business community and I hope many more people are encouraged to apply.”
For more information about the grants scheme call Annalisa Ward on 01833 696263.
