​Have you been spending your lockdown fine tuning your new business plan? Or have you come up with an inspirational new idea that you think could be the next big thing? Maybe the last few months have given you the push you’ve needed make a change and become your own boss?

Whatever your situation, with non-essential shops now open and shoppers coming back, now is the perfect time to put your plans into action.

If you’re ready to get going with your new business, Halton Borough Council and Shopping City think they’ve got perfect location for you to start your new venture from – The Box at Shopping City, Runcorn – and as an added incentive, the Council is offering new start-ups the chance to apply for a package of support, that could provide you with up to a six-month rent-free period in The Box.

The funding for the support has come from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s Town Centre Fund programme – designed to support the long-term success of the city region’s town centres.

Commenting on the initiative Cllr Ron Hignett the Council’s Executive Board Member for Physical Environment said: “Starting a new business venture at any time is a challenge, but now more than ever new start-ups need our support to get their businesses going. Some of the country’s biggest retailers started out as sole traders in spaces just like The Box, it would be great to think that in in years to come, some of the businesses we are able to support with this fund, can go on to build successful retail empires.”   

Talking about The Box, Dave Pearman from Shopping City said: “The Box is a vibrant shared space where traders are selling everything from coffee to school uniform. We really do believe it’s the perfect location for new businesses to grow and also to learn from more experienced traders. We’d love to see new businesses who can bring something exciting and different come forward and be part of the great offer we have here at Shopping City”

About the support:

The package of support can cover up to three months rental charge plus VAT at the starter rate of £25 per week and following a review at three months, if approved a further three months support at the regular hire rental charge of £50 per week plus VAT.  This will be paid direct to Shopping City.

All  Applicants must:

  • Be commencing a new retail opportunity
  • Be non-party political
  • Have a commitment to equal opportunities

From September, grants will also be available for local third sector organisations to apply for to try pop up delivery in the retail environment.

For questions about the scheme call 0151 511 8105.