A total of 84 applications have been approved for the scheme so far, which helps pay for improvements to the front of properties to make the area more attractive to residents and visitors and improve the appeal of the centre of the town.    

So far a total of £70,000 has been paid out by the Council with a further £43,700 being match funded by the property owners, and now additional funds have been allocated to continue the scheme.  

The money is available to all those who own properties in Wigton town centre, though priority has been given to properties on High Street, Market Place, King Street, Church Street and Water Street.    

The scheme can provide up to £900 for each property, with the property owner match-funding this with 10% of the grant total. The money is put toward things like materials such as paint and any labour costs, the repair or replacement of damaged items like drain pipes or guttering, and any external lighting.     

Mark Fryer, Executive Member with responsibility for economic growth and town centre development, said: “This is a great scheme which has worked really well in Maryport in the past, so it’s really good to see so many people in Wigton taking advantage of it too. Some small changes have made such a huge difference to the area so far, so I’m pleased that it will be continued. I would encourage as many people as possible to apply while they have the chance."    

For more information on the scheme or to apply, please contact Toni Magean on 0303 123 1702 or email toni.magean@allerdale.gov.uk.