The council will provide 50% grants up to a maximum of £20,000 to help private commercial landlords and business owners make improvements to properties, allowing new shops and other businesses to open.

The pilot North Lanarkshire Town Centre Retail Business Fund 2025/6 is designed to encourage new start businesses and support existing businesses to expand into properties that have been vacant for more than three months.

“Our grant fund will help encourage new business, create jobs and make our town centres more attractive for shoppers,” said Councillor Alex McVey, Convener of the Enterprise and Fair Work Committee.

“Town centres have been affected by online shopping and large retail parks, and the council is working with residents and businesses to find new ways to create modern, vibrant spaces that meet the needs of local residents.

“As well as grant funding, we offer a range of support for businesses including one-to-one personalised advice, help with recruitment, expert consultancy and events through our Business Gateway Lanarkshire service.”

The Town Centre Retail Business Fund can be used for a range of work including: internal reconfiguration; installation of permanent WC, kitchen facilities or flooring; upgrade of heating, lighting, plumbing, electrics and sales points; installation or upgrade of fixtures; internal improvements as recommended on the building’s Energy Performance Certificate; accessibility improvements above and beyond those required to meet legal requirements; and external works and improvements, such as windows, doors, signage and frontages.

Private commercial landlords and businesses interested in applying for a grant should visit the council’s web site for information on fund criteria, eligibility requirements and how to apply: Town Centre Retail Business Fund | North Lanarkshire Council