A new business grant scheme is expected to launch later this year across Rawtenstall, Waterfoot, Crawshawbooth and nearby town centres. The programme is designed to support local economic growth by focusing on bringing empty properties back into use and encouraging new and expanding businesses.

The scheme marks a shift away from traditional building-focused grants towards a more flexible business support approach, prioritising active occupation of town centre spaces.

The programme aims to:

• Bring vacant units back into use across key town centres.
• Support start-ups, growing businesses, and young entrepreneurs.
• Increase footfall and overall activity in town centres.
• Prioritise occupation of premises rather than building improvements alone.

Grants of up to £10,000 per business have been supported by board members, with flexibility retained where needed. Key considerations include eligibility criteria, conservation requirements, and both revenue and capital costs, as well as identifying priority properties for support.

A simple, accessible application process will be a key feature of the scheme.

Keep an eye out for further details ahead of the launch later this year.