News New grants available to help independent traders in Maidstone put their town centre shops on show
A new funding scheme to support traders in Maidstone Town Centre has been launched by Maidstone Borough Council.
From today, Wednesday 7 January, independent traders and landlords in the area can bid for a grant from the council’s Shopfront Improvement Grant Scheme for Town Centre Businesses.
The scheme will provide grants of between £5,000 to £10,000 to cover up to 80% of total project costs to improve their shop fronts, making them visually appealing to shoppers, encouraging more people through their doors and boosting trade.
Independent Business owners and landlords from across the Town Centre with shopfront premises are eligible to apply, with the grant open to shops, cafes, restaurants, and service businesses in retail properties.
Only businesses within the Town Centre boundary will be considered, with priority given to properties in conservation areas with heritage value in Gabriel’s Hill, Earl Street, Week Street and High Street.
Examples of improvements include restoring or repairing existing features, updating or replacing signage, windows, or doors, installing appropriate lighting, and making general upgrades to enhance the overall appearance of the shopfront and wider town centre.
Councillor Stephen Thompson, cabinet member for Healthier Stronger Communities said: “Attractive shopfronts are one of the most powerful ways to draw people in and boost trade, particularly when they respect and enhance the character of the building they sit within. Thoughtful design – whether restoring original features, reflecting neighbouring historic details, or using modern materials and colour palettes that complement the heritage above – can stop shoppers in their tracks and invite them inside.“Making our town centre visually appealing, while celebrating its historic fabric, is essential to creating a vibrant and welcoming environment and ensuring Maidstone remains a great place to shop. That’s why I’m delighted the Council has secured funding for this scheme, giving local businesses a real opportunity to enhance their shopfronts in ways that benefit individual traders and strengthen the character and appeal of the wider town centre.”
Businesses interested in our Shopfront Improvement Scheme are urged to review the guidance page on MBC’s website and complete an Expression of Interest form.
The first round of funding is now open and the closing date for applications is 27 February 2026 with panel assessments taking place for awards in March.
For more information please visit our website or contact the team directly at ShopfrontImprovement@maidstone.gov.uk