Redundant Buildings Grant

Developers will be able to apply for money to refurbish empty buildings to make them into useable workspaces within the parishes of Beaminster, Cheddington, Mapperton, Mosterton and South Perrot.

A sum of £110,000 is available in grants from £10,000 to £50,000 towards the costs of bringing the buildings back to productive employment uses.

The grant scheme will increase workspace in the area and help new and existing businesses to expand and grow while boosting employment in the area.

Applications are invited throughout the year and will be considered during March, July and November each year.

The grants will be awarded after planning permission has been granted and would be available for conversion of the buildings for certain categories of employment- financial and professional services, light industrial or office use, general industrial, storage or distribution and education.

Costs that can be claimed back through the scheme include construction, ancillary works in accordance with planning consent, finance charges, connection to utilities and professional fees.

The money for the grants has come from Barnfleet Works housing development. Following the closure of this large employment site, builders C G Fry and Son were required to make a contribution towards the future provision, protection development or enhancement of employment sites in or near Beaminster.

Applications can be submitted at any time by completing the application form (pdf, 366kb) (opens in a new window)  which also includes details of the funding criteria. Applications will be determined three times per year. 

• Business Support Team Leader
  Name: Trevor Hedger
  Email: T.Hedger@westdorset-weymouth.gov.uk
  Tel: 01305 252378
  Full details for Trevor Hedger