Shropshire Council is urging commercial landlords to act fast and apply for the Government-funded UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) Property Improvements Grant before the opportunity closes.

This is the final chance to access funding of up to £10,000 to help bring long-vacant properties back into use

The grant scheme supports landlords of eligible commercial properties located within market town conservation areas across Shropshire. Properties must have been vacant for at least 12 months, and the funding is intended to make them rentable once again, boosting local economic activity and breathing new life into Shropshire’s high streets.

Grants range from £2,000 to £10,000, covering up to 50% of eligible improvement costs. Landlords must provide match funding and commit to retaining ownership of the property for at least two years following the completion of works.

Shropshire Council is still inviting applications, but time is running out. Funding is limited and no further rounds of this grant are planned.

Eligible properties include those used for retail, hospitality, leisure, tourism, and office space. Improvements may involve structural repairs, interior updates, façade enhancements or anything that increases the property’s appeal to potential tenants.

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be a small or medium-sized business (SME) landlord.
• Have been trading for at least three months.

• Have no unpaid debts owed to Shropshire Council, such as business rates.
• Submit a complete and eligible Expression of Interest (EOI) form.

Rob Wilson, Cabinet Member for Transport and Economic Growth, said:

“This is a last-chance opportunity for landlords to access funding that can transform vacant properties into vibrant commercial spaces. We strongly encourage anyone eligible to apply now before the window closes.”

Further information about eligibility and applications can be found here : UKSPF property improvements grant – expression of interest | Shropshire Council

This grant is part of a general programme to support and boost the High Street in Shropshire’s market towns.

For further guidance, contact the UKSPF team at ukspfgrants@shropshire.gov.uk

ENDS

Notes to Editor

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is a fund allocated by the UK government and managed by local authorities in partnership with local stakeholders. Its purpose is to replace the funding previously provided by Europe and to address inequalities between communities.

The overarching objective of the fund is to build pride in place and increase life chances. The programme includes 3 investment priorities:

• Supporting Local Business
• Community and Place
• People and Skills

Recently, Shropshire was awarded a further £1,431,774 capital and £2,892,904 revenue funding for 2025/6 enabling many of projects and initiatives to continue for another year.