Local businesses in central Fraserburgh still have time to apply for a grant of up to £5,000 and free expert advice as part of Aberdeenshire Council's Property Enhancement Scheme (FPES).

The scheme, run in association with Aberdeenshire Towns Partnership and supported by Fraserburgh Business Association, was launched in September. The overall aim is to regenerate the heart of Fraserburgh to attract more shoppers and increase spending in the town.

The scheme is forecast to inject around £250,000 worth of total investment in the town centre, based on the leverage rates from a similar scheme that was carried out in Huntly at the start of 2008.

Applications will be accepted until the deadline on Friday, October 31 and business leaders in the town have encouraged businesses to take advantage of the opportunity.

Iain Rankin, chair of the Fraserburgh Futures Partnership Steering Group, which has also part-funded FPES, said: "Businesses should grab the opportunity to make Fraserburgh stand out as a unique shopping location.

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"Funding is still available through the Fraserburgh Property Enhancement Scheme and we’re keen to receive applications from as many businesses as possible.

"The scheme will improve shops externally and internally, enhance customer experience and inject new life into the businesses around the town.

"Applicants to the FPES can apply for part or all of the services on offer - from grants for exterior or interior work to free confidential business advice."

More than 20 businesses from ice cream retailers to jewellers took advantage of a similar scheme in Huntly at the start of the year and received grants of up to £5,000 as well as business advice and support.

Philip Morrison, owner of Rizza's in Gordon Street, used a grant towards the renovation of his confectioners and ice cream parlour, he said: "It's worth investing in the appearance of your shop as that is the first thing visitors see.

"Staff and customers have been very happy with the changes we have made to the inside and outside of the shop. It has also made a difference to the business in terms of sales which, despite the weather, were up 10 per cent this summer compared to August last year."

For more details on the scheme contact Gillian Lamont, Aberdeenshire Towns Partnership (ATP) Town Coordinator on 01346 510513.

(GK/JM)