Mountrath, Mountmellick, Rathdowney, Ballinakill and Ballylinan communities have the opportunity to share in €260,000 worth of financial support for the upgrade and enhancement of shopfronts and street facades.
Grants of up to €8,000 per building are available in specific areas of these towns under the new Streetscape Enhancement Scheme announced by the government under the “Our Rural Future” Strategy.
Cllr Conor Bergin, Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council said: “I welcome this scheme and the support from the Department of Rural and Community Development.
“The aim of the Scheme is to improve the visual appearance of our urban streetscapes which increases pride and confidence in our towns and villages, making them more attractive places to live, work and do business.
“We in Laois County Council look forward to working with communities and the owners of business and residential premises in these towns and villages.”
Explaining the application process, Denise Rainey, Business Support Unit said: “Grants are available for up to 70% for individual premises and 80% for joint premises.
“A 100% grant rate applies to people undertaking painting works themselves.
“Now is the time to avail of this opportunity and we will support communities in whatever way we can to ensure that each town gets a good level of support under the scheme.”
For further information log onto www.laois.ie or call Sheila Cahill 0578664105 or e-mail businesssupport@laoiscoco.ie
The closing date is 5pm on September 7 and applications must be made online at www.laois.ie.
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