Shop Front Revitalisation Grant returns to boost Mid and East Antrim town centres

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has announced the return of its popular Shop Front Revitalisation Grant Scheme for a third consecutive year, offering a major boost to local businesses in town centres across Ballymena, Larne, Carrickfergus and Greenisland.

The initiative, backed by £604,000 in funding from the Department for Communities, aims to transform the appearance of shop fronts and revitalise high streets throughout the Borough.

Building on the success of previous schemes that supported over 150 local businesses, this new round of funding reinforces the Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting local enterprise and enhancing the look and feel of its town centres.

Eligible businesses can now apply for grants ranging from £500 to £7,500, covering up to 80% of the total cost of approved works. Improvements can include external upgrades designed to refresh and modernise shop fronts, helping to make town centres more inviting for shoppers and visitors alike.

Minister welcomes local investment

Announcing the initiative, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said:

“I am pleased to support this initiative, which will help strengthen and rejuvenate our local town centres. By working in partnership with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, we’re helping to create more attractive, and welcoming town centres that encourage investment, improve the experience for visitors, and support long-term sustainability of local businesses.

“The Shop Front Revitalisation Scheme demonstrates the value of collaborative regeneration – ensuring our towns thrive as vibrant places to live, work, and shop.”

Council encourages local traders to apply

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, praised the positive impact of previous schemes and encouraged eligible businesses to apply for the latest round of funding.

“Our Shop Front Revitalisation Schemes have already made a significant difference to the appearance and vitality of our town centres. This new round of funding will continue to support local businesses, attract visitors, and strengthen the visual appeal across our Borough.

“By investing in our high streets, we’re not only improving the look of our towns but also encouraging footfall and helping to sustain the independent traders that are at the hearts of our communities.

“I would encourage all eligible business owners to make the most of this fantastic opportunity. Businesses that missed out on earlier rounds of funding now have another chance to transform their shop fronts and contribute to the ongoing revitalisation of our town centres.”

How to apply

The online application portal opened on Monday 13 October 2025 and will remain open until Monday 1 December 2025. Subject to available funding, a second call for applications may be launched in 2026.

Applications can be submitted via the Council’s Grants Portal at Mid & East Antrim Community Grants.

The Shop Front Revitalisation Scheme forms part of a wider £670,000 project, jointly funded by the Department for Communities and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.

The broader initiative includes animation activities and the provision of outdoor furniture to further enhance the customer experience across town centres.

For more information, businesses can email: revitalise@midandeastantrim.gov.uk.