The Town Centre UKSPF Shop Front Improvement Grant is open to applications until Friday 19 December 2025. Businesses are encouraged to apply early, as the grant is available for a limited time and subject to budget availability.
This scheme provides businesses located within designated town centre areas the opportunity to access funding of up to £4,000, aimed at improving and revitalising shop frontages.
The grant operates on a match-funding basis, with the contribution varying depending on the total project cost:
| Total Project Spend Band (£) | Grant % |
|---|---|
| Below 1,250 | Not eligible |
| 1,251–2,500 | 80% flat |
| 2,501–3,000 | Slides 80% → 70% |
| 3,001–4,500 | 70% flat |
| 4,501–5,000 | Slides 70% → 60% |
| 5,001–6,667 | 60% flat |
| Above 6,667 | 60% capped at £4,000 |
* If your total project cost is higher, you can still apply for the grant, however the maximum grant award is £4,000.
Download our match calculator below to see how much you could apply for:
Eligible applicants must be Small or Medium Enterprises (SMEs) located within the defined town centre boundaries of one of Amber Valley’s four market towns: Alfreton, Belper, Heanor, or Ripley.
Please note: Only businesses operating within the official town centre boundaries are eligible to apply. If you are a business outside of this boundary you may wish to consider the Amber Valley Shop Front Improvement Grant
You can check to see if your business is located within the town centre boundary here.
The grant will remain open for applications until all available funding has been fully allocated. Applications are considered on a first come first serve basis.
This is a time-sensitive grant, and all funded works must be completed by February 2026 to meet reporting requirements.
Applications can take up to 6 weeks to process, this must be factored into your project timeline to ensure completion before the deadline.
Important: Funding cannot be granted retrospectively for any work that has already been completed. You must not begin any works until you have received a formal decision on your application.
If you are unsure about the timing of your project or need further advice, please contact regeneration@ambervalley.gov.uk before proceeding.
Please ensure you refer to our Application guidance and Claims guidance documents for full details on the requirements and process. It is strongly recommended that you read the Claims Guidance before submitting your application, so you are fully aware of the steps involved in making a claim and the documentation that will be required upon completion of the works.
To apply, please complete our online application form UKSPF Town Centre Shop Front Improvement Grant - Application Form – Fill out form
Once your form has been submitted, you will receive a confirmation email from the Council. We will then request the necessary supporting documents listed below. Your application will not be accepted until all required documentation has been received.
Supporting documents:
Applications are reviewed within 6 weeks of submission. Following the review, eligible applications are put forward for a formal decision, and applicants will be notified of the outcome in writing.
If approved, applicants will receive a grant contract and approval letter. Once the signed contract has been returned by the applicant and countersigned by the Council, works may then begin.
All approved works must be completed within 12 weeks of the approval date, or within an agreed timeframe, depending on the time of year approval is granted. Please note that all works must be fully completed by February 2026 to meet funding and reporting deadlines.
Contact the team directly on 01773 570222 or email enquiry@ambervalley.gov.uk
