A GRANT of £80,000 has been made available to businesses in Redcar High Street to renovate their premises.

They have until next March to apply for the money, which is to be used for door and window replacement and roof and structural repairs.

Successful applications have already been made by a pub, two guesthouses, a dentist's and a shop. They have received £30,000 between them.

Redcar Town centre manager John Partridge said: "The objective is to encourage improvement or renovation of property and premises in the whole of the eastern end of the High Street.

"There are a number of vacant properties and part of the strategy is to bring them into use. We also hope the grant scheme will act as an incentive for investors to come to the town. If the town becomes more attractive it will attract more visitors."

The Property Improvement Grant scheme is being funded by the West Redcar Town Centre Management and Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's development department. Applications can be made for the grant for up to 50 per cent of the total costs, to a maximum of £10,000.

For details and an application form, contact Mr Partridge at the Redcar Station Business Centre on (01642) 472485.