Eligibility criteria for applications
Eligible projects must:
- be commercial properties located within the redline boundary as shown on the map
- be ‘ready to go’ - to be implemented and completed by Friday 9 January 2026
- demonstrate how funding will contribute to one or more of The Fund objectives
Applicants must ensure they check and either have obtained or be in the process of obtaining relevant consents for their project, for example, planning permission, licenses, freeholder consent:
- if you are unsure whether or you need planning consent, you should visit the Planning Portal at www.planningportal.co.uk
- you can find copies of decision notices for previous planning approvals (for use as evidence)
- view guidance about Licenses and Permits
Shopfront improvements
General principles
Planning approval will likely be required for material changes to external appearance of a building (new or changes to shop fronts). Existing historic or traditional shop front features, including signboards, corbels, stall risers, cornices, window fanlights, console brackets, transoms, pilasters, canopies and lobbies should be retained and enhanced.
Fascia boards should be proportionate to the shopfront and neighbouring uses. Security shutters should ideally be internal and perforated so as to maintain an active street level frontage.
Advertisement consent should be sought for external signage and for anything within 1 metre of a window (measured internally).
Uses within buildings: From 01 September 2020 the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 was amended and introduced changes to the system of use classes. Class A, D and B1 were revoked and replaced with the new broad commercial class - Class E. Class F was introduced and covered local community and learning.
New revised permitted development rights were introduced from 31 July 2021. Currently changes between E to F and vice versa will likely need planning approval.
Please email planningapplications@wirral.gov.uk if you have specific enquiries about permissions or building control and include the subject line PLANNING.
Businesses that are not eligible
Your business is not eligible if it is classed as a:
- pawn broker
- pub
- adult or private shop
- betting shop or amusement arcade
- national and international chain store
- a home-based business, operating and registered to a residential address
A business cannot apply if it:
- is dissolved or about to be dissolved
- is a dormant company or organisation
- is insolvent or if insolvency action had been instigated against it
- is located outside of the boundary areas (as defined on the plan)
- is not a small or micro business
- is not able to demonstrate and evidence that it is compliant with subsidy control allowances at grant agreement stage
- owes money relating to Business Rates or relating to rent arrears associated with council-owned premises