MORE than 20 businesses across Wyre Forest have taken advantage of businessboosting district council schemes which were launched nearly a year ago.

Town centres manager for Kidderminster, Stourport and Bewdley, Peter Michael, said the interest in Wyre Forest District Council-backed rate relief and refurbishment grants showed the “entrepreneurial spirit” was alive and well in the area.

Since launching the two schemes in November last year, more than 21 new businesses have opened in empty units or have taken the opportunity to refurbish shops.

Talking to The Shuttle, business owners have admitted they would have struggled to open their doors without the help.

David Jones, owner of Alan Morris and Jones Estate Agents opened its Load Street, Bewdley, branch earlier this year after applying for the refurbishment grant.

“We would have thought long and hard about the property as it was not in a perfect state but with the help of the council we were able to refurbish it,” he said.

Tamsin Hancocks-Guinan opened Tamsin’s Bridal Boutique in Coventry Street, Kidderminster, last month and said her business would not be at its town centre location without the boost from the council.

“We would not have taken this unit on if it was not for the grant,” she said.

“This unit was completely empty and it cost a lot of money to get it to even be useable.”

Dress shop All Occasions opened in Stourport High Street a month ago, after owner Tina Tarzi had applied for help from both schemes.

Mrs Tarzi said: “I think it is really important businesses like this are supported because the economy has gone through a bit of a slump “The rates in some towns are stopping people [opening business]and of course business tax is a killer and putting more pressure on owners.”

Those who want to apply for rate relief or the empty shop refurbishment grant can contact Mr Michael on 01562 732534 or email peter.michael @wyreforestdc.gov.uk