The Council were previously seeking expressions of interest from local property owners for a new Living Over the Shops Grant Programme. Commercial property which has vacant or underutilised floor space above their premises, could be eligible for funding to repurpose the space for residential use.
Subject to demand and available funding for the proposed pilot scheme, eligible property owners will be offered support for both interior and exterior improvements which could include:
- Installation of kitchen and bathroom facilities
- External and internal painting
- Access improvements (with Building Control Consent)
- Improved security features
- Electrics and lighting
- Plumbing
- Installation / upgrade heating system
Repurposing the vacant spaces will help stimulate the repopulation of local town centres and economic nodes, contribute to an increase in local housing for residents, reduce the number of vacant premises, contribute to an increase in footfall to the town centres and reduce the risk of anti-social behaviour and vandalism.
Speaking on the Living Over the Shops Grant Scheme Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Alderman Stephen Ross said;
“I fully support this pilot scheme which would greatly enhance our Town Centres and allow property owners to invest in their properties and provide much needed residential space for local people.”
PLEASE NOTE WE ARE NO LONGER TAKING EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR THIS PROGRAMME
To find out more information please contact the Regeneration Team on:
T. 028 9034 0000 E. regeneration@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk