BID Fort William is proud to continue supporting local businesses through its Property Improvement Grant scheme, designed to help levy payers invest in the visual and structural enhancement of their premises. These improvements not only uplift individual properties but also contribute to a more vibrant, welcoming, and professional business environment across Fort William.
The following recent project highlights the positive impact of the scheme and encourages other levy payers to consider applying.
The Granite House applied for the grant to address a problem that had been building for years: a front entrance shutter well over 30 years old, rusting, tired-looking, and increasingly difficult to operate. The old shutter was brown, worn down by three decades of Highland weather, and no longer matched the shop’s fascia.
The grant has enabled the installation of a brand new electric shutter, powder coated in the shop’s signature oxide red. The result is a tidy, clean and seamless look for the premises whenever the shop is closed — and a shutter that’s simply easier and safer for staff to use day to day.
“Our old shutter had become a real headache — rusting, awkward to operate, and it didn’t match the rest of our shopfront at all. Thanks to BID Fort William’s Property Improvement Grant, we’ve been able to replace it with a new electric shutter in our signature oxide red. It’s transformed the look of our entrance, and it’s so much easier and safer for our team to use every day.”
Fort William High Street stays busy well into the evening, with tourists and locals dining out long after most shops have closed. During those hours, a well-presented shopfront still works hard: display windows lit up and shutters that look sharp rather than shabby help entice passers-by to return when the shop reopens.
The Granite House felt the old shutter was letting the rest of the shopfront down, and that a smarter, better-matched entrance would leave a stronger impression on potential customers passing by after hours — as well as encouraging a general sense of pride and tidiness along the High Street.
We are proud to support The Granite House through this scheme. A well-maintained, well-presented shopfront sends a clear message: that a business takes pride in its premises and in its place on Fort William High Street. Supporting improvements like this is exactly what the Property Improvement Grant is here to do — helping levy payers invest in the details that make the High Street more attractive for everyone.
If your business premises could benefit from an upgrade, the Property Improvement Grant offers a straightforward and supportive route to making it happen.
To apply, contact BID Fort William’s Project Manager, Mary Philip: manager@bidfortwilliam.co.uk 07448 533 127 www.bidfortwilliam.co.uk/business-grants
Applications are assessed on a first come, first served basis, so early submission is encouraged. Full details can be found in the grant application form.
