Businesses invited to get makeover

GRANTS of up to €4,000 are being made available to shops and businesses on Rush Main Street under a new scheme.  

Fingal County Council’s Paint and Shop Front Improvement Scheme is now open to applications.

The scheme part-funds the revamp and restoration of the front of business premises, including painting, replacement of windows, signage and repair and re-instatement of shop fronts.

The grant will be available to premises on the Main Street from Whitestown Road to the harbour, with priority to shops and commercial premises. 

The maximum grant available will be 50 percent of the approved cost of the works to a maximum amount of €4,000.

Grants will be paid on completion of approved works and subject to proof of payment, and all works must be fully complete by December 31, 2019 in order to avail of funding.

Applications will be assessed and works should not be commenced prior to approval. An information open evening will be held on March 6 at the community centre between 5pm and 8pm.

Applications are being accepted now and forms are available from the council website and in the community centre.

The scheme is one of the first initiatives to come from the Rush Urban Framework Plan which was adopted by the council last year. 

Further works in relation to provision of signage for the town will also be forthcoming this year. Funding was sought and approved by the Department of Rural and Community Development, under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2018 and Fingal County Council.

Speaking at the launch, Vice-Chair of Rush Community Council Fintan Price said: “It is a fantastic opportunity for the community of Rush, and I urge everyone to promote the scheme as much as possible. 

“This grant will provide an opportunity to improve and enhance the visual appearance of shops, offices and all buildings along main street.”

Fingal County Council Director of Planning and Strategic Infrastructure AnnMarie Farrelly said it is essential that town centres are attractive places to visit if they are to thrive. 

“This initiative is an opportunity to improve and reinvigorate Rush Town Centre, making it a vibrant retail and commercial centre,” said Ms Farrelly.

“This scheme aims to create a more attractive environment for residents, visitors, shoppers and businesses. 

“The scheme will focus on good design and works should comply with Development Plan standards."

Mayor of Fingal County Council Cllr Anthony Lavin said: “This is a unique opportunity for business and property owners to enhance the face of their premises. I encourage everyone along the main street to avail of the scheme.”