Writes Ciaran Dineen
It has been announced by Cork County Council that sections of both Crosshaven and Ringaskiddy will be included in this year’s Streetscape Painting and Shop Improvement Scheme, with €20,000 allocated in the Town Development Fund budget.
It comes following an incredibly successful campaign in the Carrigaline MD for 2020, in which a total of 14 businesses and 10 residences in Carrigaline and Passage West were approved.
Under the scheme, tenants or owners of businesses in Town Centres can avail of a grant of up to 50% for the cost of works, to a maximum of €1000, for shop-front improvements carried out by a registered contractor.
However, if a full street of buildings come together (5 adjacent buildings or more) and decide to all take part in the renewal, they can receive funds that cover up to 60% of the total cost. Furthermore, should tenants/business owners wish to undergo the labour of the work themselves, they can receive a contribution of up to 100% of materials used.
Council Representatives at the launch of the scheme last year
Eligible works are items that will enhance the exterior, front-facing element of the building in question. This includes external painting, along with signage replacement with “heritage type signs”. Those with signs are encouraged to incorporate versions which include Irish translation. A recent document has been produced to promote suitable shopfront design and upgrade, which seeks to give a guide as to how frontage should reflect the architecture of the building and the surrounding area. The guidelines give advice on a best practice approach that can be used by shop owners when considering what they would like to do with their buildings.
The news of the addition of part of Crosshaven and Ringaskiddy to the scheme were announced at this month’s meeting of the Carrigaline Municipal District (MD) meeting. Executive Officer, Noelle Desmond, revealed that dwellings in Ringaskiddy stretching from the Ferry Boat Inn down to the Oratory can now apply for grants. Meanwhile in Crosshaven, premises across from Chish ‘n’ Fips also fall under the new extension.
The scheme is now open for applications until 4.30pm on Friday April 30th. For further information and application forms, contact Cork County Council on 021 4285116