Gateway to Ayr Town Centre Shopfront Improvement Programme (GATCSIP)

Gateway to Ayr Town Centre Shopfront Improvement Programme (GATCSIP)

The Gateway to Ayr Town Centre Shopfront Improvement Programme (GATCSIP) offers grants to help businesses, property owners, and tenants repair, restore, or reinstate traditional shopfront features.

Projects that enhance both the shopfront and the surrounding streetscape will be prioritised.

Apply for Gateway to Ayr Town Centre Grant

GRANT DETAILS:

• Grant range: The grant will cover 100% of a minimum of £1,000 up to a maximum of £12,000.
• Eligibility: Businesses, property owners, and tenants located within the defined Gateways to Ayr Town Centre area. Eligible areas include:
  • Newmarket Street - 

  • Sandgate - 

• Requirements: Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and comply with any Conservation Area regulations.
• Applicants are encouraged to consult the Ayr Town Centre Shopfront Design Guide for design standards, insights, and practical guidance before applying.

FUNDING MAY SUPPORT:

• Refurbishment or reinstatement of historic or traditional fascia (horizontal boards along the roof edge) or sensitively designed new fascia.
• Refurbishment or reinstatement of timber shopfronts or building frontages. (Aluminium and PVC shopfronts are not eligible.)
• New signage, including projecting signs.
  • Traditional hand-painted signs are encouraged.
  • Individual letter signs may be supported if made from wood, cast iron, brass, or copper. (Aluminium and PVC signs are not eligible.)
• Lighting, with a preference for overhanging lights rather than illuminated box signs.
• Retractable awnings or blinds made from traditional materials (e.g., woven fabric or canvas) in neutral colours.
• Repainting in colour schemes sympathetic to the building and surrounding area.
• Restoration and cleaning of stonework.
• Professional fees for architects, surveyors, structural engineers, or agents.
• Fees for required statutory consents (planning applications, advertising consent).

DESIGN EXPECTATIONS:

Shopfronts should respect the character of the street and complement the building's architecture. Colour schemes should harmonise with neighbouring properties and the wider area.

FURTHER GUIDANCE:

For full details, review the following documents:

• Ayr Town Centre Shopfront Design Guide (PDF, 7 MB)
• Ayr Shop Front Grant - Guide for Applicants (PDF, 1 MB)
• Scale Drawings and Sign Guide (PDF, 6 MB)

APPLICATION TIMELINE:

APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENSION:The application deadline has been extended until Sunday 31^st May 2026 at 11:59pm.  

Please note: the application is not first come, first served. Applications will be reviewed after the application deadline closes on 31st May. Applicants are encouraged to contact[email protected] if they have any questions prior to submitting an application.

QUESTIONS:

If you have any questions, contact us at [email protected].