A cycling enthusiast has started his own business thanks to a council-backed business improvement scheme.
Gary Ewing, proud owner of Inspiral Cycles received funding from a business improvement grant to help him set up shop in Bishop Auckland and other businesses are being reminded funds are still available.
The funding provided by Durham County Council and available until March 2016, helped with windows, signage, and shutters with graphics. Gary also received help with business planning and a security grant from the South Durham Enterprise Agency (SDEA).
Gary said: “With being a keen cyclist and having worked in the biking industry, I knew I had the experience and skills to set-up my business in my hometown.
“The money really helped us with the large investment required to make my dream a reality. The shop is going very well and we hope to continually develop the business and offer new services.”
The council’s business investment scheme in Bishop Auckland focuses on helping to revitalise the towns by helping to refurbish local business premises and bringing empty spaces back into use.
Entrepreneurs or business owners in Bishop Auckland can apply for up to £10,000 to help them make improvements to their current business or to help progress a new one, although limited funds are available so the advice is to move quickly.
Supported by the scheme, work can include repairs and redecoration of windows, doors, signs, rendering, brickwork and shutters. It also includes improvements to gable ends, rain water goods and disabled access. In addition, support for staff training can also be provided.
The Secure Business Scheme is provided by the SDEA and the Bishop Auckland and Shildon Area Action Partnership. It provides help to businesses in the area to upgrade their security systems as well as providing advice and guidance to support planning for the future of their firm.
Cllr Neil Foster, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economic regeneration said: “This scheme is all about investing in our local businesses, boosting the economy and creating jobs. We’d like to encourage any businesses to come forward and see how we can help.”
Cllr Rob Yorke, Chair of South Durham Enterprise Agency said: “It’s great to be supporting our local communities. We’re not just helping businesses now but planning for the future too giving them the best possible chance of success.”
For more information about the Business Improvement Scheme call 03000 262 052.
Anyone interested in a security grant can contact South Durham Enterprise Agency on 01388 776 688