Business support and guidance

About the scheme

The scheme intends to provide businesses across Paddington and Bayswater with support, design services and funding to improve the visual appeal and attractiveness of high streets in the area.

The scheme aims to:

• support businesses with access to free services to improve their shopfronts
• attract more customers and improve the customer experience
• and create a more welcoming and vibrant high street environment

Read more about the scheme in our flyer:

The scheme will cover contractual services and shop front improvement works of up to £20,000 for eligible businesses and property owners in the Paddington and Bayswater area. The works will focus on: 

• repainting existing shop fronts 
• new traditional hand painted signage 
• repairs 

For businesses to participate and benefit from the shopfront improvements, we will be seeking the permission of both the business leaseholders and freeholders. The majority of the costs of the works and installation will be covered by Westminster City Council. We will be expecting applicants to contribute between 10-20% of the total cost, depending on ownership. 

For businesses within priority areas we will:

1. pay for 80-90% of the improvement works
2. provide free architect and design advice for the shopfront transformation. 
3. manage the planning application 
4. pay any related admin fees or surveys
5. appoint and manage the building contractor and works 
6. work with businesses to minimise disruption to trade
7. publicise the project and promote the works  

Areas in scope 

Priority areas will focus on: 

• Edgware Road, south of the flyover 
• Subject to availability, will be open to other high streets within the wider Paddington and Bayswater area

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for funding, you must:

• be trading in the Paddington or Bayswater area 
• have fewer than 50 employees 
• have a turnover of less than £43.5million or a balance sheet total of less than £37.4million
• not be in financial difficulty 

Businesses who apply will also be supported to apply for the visual merchandising services scheme to improve the interior of their units. This aims to enhance the overall customer experience of shopping on the high street. 

A second phase of the programme will be rolled out at a later date to prioritise businesses in the conservation area.​

Apply

Applications are now closed. We are currently reviewing the first round of submissions and will share an update with the shortlisted candidates once the process is complete.