The latest round of support for local high street businesses has just closed. Ottery St Mary Town Council’s Environment, Local Development and Commerce Committee launched a third round of its hugely successful shop front grants. The latest funding round was launched April 2024, offering financial support to High Street businesses to improve the appearance of their shop fronts. The two previous rounds of funding have proved very popular with business owners and have led to a visible improvement in the appearance of Ottery’s town centre.
The Council approved funding in round three of just over £2,500. Two of the successful applicants were Sup Dawg and Grace Hair.
Solo Marsh from Sup Dawg commented “We were moving shops within Ottery and diversifying in larger premises and saw details of the scheme on social media. The application was simple, easy to follow, and the council answered any questions I had about the process quickly.”
Both Sup Dawg and Grace Hair were new shops which needed a complete shop front overhaul including new signage.
Grace Mangeng who owns Grace Hair said “Having the grant was great as it helped towards the costs of setting up my salon and making it look welcoming. The grant is incredibly valuable to small businesses like mine and make a real difference to the overall look of the town.”
Cllr John Green, Chair of the Council’s Environment, Local Development and Commerce committee, said “We are delighted the shop fund grant scheme continues to be popular with business owners in the town and has already made a difference. We continue to support initiatives to improve Ottery and make it an attractive destination for both local shoppers and visitors. Ottery continues to see new independent shops opening, offering that local service and point of difference enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.”
Cllr Green added “The Council have commissioned a new publication that includes a town map and blue plaque map. The publication will be available free of charge from early July in all local shops, restaurants, pubs, the library, accommodation providers and visitor attractions. This supports the digital Visit Ottery St Mary website, providing residents and visitors with information and events in our wonderful town.”
