Three empty shops have been brought back into use in Worksop and Retford, filling gaps on high streets that had been vacant for some time.
Bistro U Budynia has opened on Bridge Street in Worksop. In Retford, Treat Yourself and C. H. Lettings are now trading from previously empty premises.
The three businesses shared £20,000 in funding from Bassetlaw District Council's High Street Shop Fit Out Grants scheme. The money covers the cost of essential repairs and improvements needed to get the premises ready for customers.
Empty shop units on high streets are a familiar problem across Britain, and Worksop and Retford are no exception. The council's scheme tackles this by removing a major barrier for new business owners: the upfront expense of decorating, upgrading utilities, and bringing premises up to standard before opening the doors.
If you own an empty commercial unit in Worksop or Retford's town centres and are looking to attract a tenant, or if you're a business considering opening on the high street, you can ask Bassetlaw District Council about similar funding opportunities.