Funding available for Bed and Breakfast businesses in Oswestry

Bed and Breakfast businesses in the Oswestry area are able to bid for up to £5,000 from Shropshire Council’s Market Towns Revitalisation Programme.

Funding is aimed at improvements to B&B accommodation and increasing the number of bedrooms available. B&Bs can bid for support with projects such as creating additional bedrooms, making structural alterations to improve access and the installation of lifts, en-suite facilities, wi-fi or broadband.

Keith Barrow, Leader of Shropshire Council and Councillor for Oswestry South, said:

“We’ve already seen some of this fund go to good use so far and I hope to see even more B&Bs benefit from this scheme. Improving and increasing the town’s capacity to house overnight guests will in turn boost the economy. We really do encourage anyone who thinks they could benefit from the scheme to come forward and see what we can do for your business.”

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Councillor Cabinet member for business growth and leading the Market Towns Revitalisation Programme, said:

“I’m proud of what’s been done so far, but there is certainly more help available for those who could use it. This programme is another part of this Council’s plan to help the county’s market towns through these tough times.”

B&Bs wishing to apply for the funding are expected to request the minimum amount of grant needed to deliver the project and provide match funding from their own sources. Up to 50% grant is available, and the maximum grant initially available is £5,000. Applicants will need to demonstrate that the accommodation will comply with the Disability Discrimination Act.

Application forms can be collected from the Oswestry Town Council offices at the Guildhall, Oswestry. For more information about the grant scheme and how to apply you can contact Susan Coleman, Shropshire Council business support officer, on 01743 252 597 or by emailing susan.coleman@shropshire.gov.uk