A NIGHTCLUB has become the first business to benefit from a new grant programme aimed at boosting Nelson town centre.

Funding from Pendle Council and government Single Regeneration Budget cash will allow extensive improvement work to be carried out at the Equinox club, Market Street - formerly the Grand Theatre - including new signs, the reinstatement of a Victorian canopy and the refurbishment of a number of windows.

This marks the first of several renovation projects which will be taking place during the two-year Nelson town centre grant programme.

A number of other local shops and businesses have also been offered grant help to carry out external improvements.

Equinox manager Tony Ahmed said: "Grant funding is enabling us to carry out repairs that we wouldn't otherwise have been able to afford so it's a very worthwhile exercise.

"I'm pleased that a number of traders are also taking advantage of these benefits because it will help boost Nelson's reputation as one of the most vibrant town centres in the area."

The club received a £30,000 grant, the maximum allowed under the scheme, and will meet the remainder of the improvement costs.

The council's town centres manager, Joanne Johnson, added: "The grant programme is the result of a joint initiative between Pendle Partnership and Pendle Council who have worked alongside the Nelson town centre forum to identify areas of improvements in Nelson.

"Local companies have been encouraged to apply for grant funding ad we are hoping that the subsequent renovation work, together with other environmental improvements planned for the town, will help to restore vitality to Nelson."

The programme offers grants of up to 75 per cent, up to a maximum of £30,000, to companies submitting successful applications in 1999/2000.

High demand means grants may have to be cut to 50 per cent the following year.

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