GRANTS of up to £3,000 are available to businesses and community organisations to spruce up premises in Haddington town centre.

The second round of the Haddington Shopfront Improvement Grant Scheme has been launched by East Lothian Council and Haddington and District Community Council.

Previously, the initiative, funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, successfully supported 13 business to carry out repairs or enhance the appearance of their properties.

The aim of the project is to encourage more people to visit the historic town centre and use shops and services.

Councillor John McMillan, cabinet spokesperson for environment, economic development and tourism, welcomed the latest step.

READ MORE: Traders get the chance to spruce up their shopfronts

The Haddington and Lammermuir ward councillor said: “These grants have already helped a number of businesses improve the look of their premises in Haddington town centre.

“There have been a lot of changes in retail premises in this area recently, so I think this next round of grants will be even more in demand.

“I’d advise anyone with a town centre shop to apply.

“Improving the look of our historic town is a huge benefit to local people and visitors alike, and in attracting future investment.”

The second and final round of funding will aim to continue the support available to business owners and community organisations within the town centre, with grants of up to 75 per cent of eligible costs available, up to a maximum of £3,000.

The fund is limited and all applications received will be assessed in terms of the fund priorities and grant awards made accordingly.

READ MORE: Businesses urged to help create ‘vibrant’ town centre in Haddington

Funded works can include redecoration, new signage, repairs to shopfronts, reinstatement of missing architectural details or replacement of the shopfront with a new frontage.

Christoph Crepaz, chairman of the community council's town centre development group, said: "We are excited to launch the second round of this scheme.

“It's an excellent opportunity for businesses to enhance their presence and contribute to the overall charm of our town.

“The positive feedback and visible improvements from the first round have been tremendous, and we look forward to seeing more transformations that will boost community pride and economic vitality."

The fund is now open for applications, with a deadline for submissions of September 9.

A drop-in meeting for anyone interested in making an application through the scheme will be held from 6pm this evening (Thursday) in Haddington’s Victoria Inn.

For more information on the Haddington Shopfront Improvement Grant Scheme, visit the East Lothian Council website.