Support for threatened businesses

A �625,000 package of support for businesses threatened by coastal erosion launches next week as part of the North Norfolk Pathfinder Programme.

The business support project is a major plank of the �3m Pathfinder Programme, which aims to find new ways to help communities adapt to coastal change.

The free support and advice project will initially be focused on businesses within the 100-year erosion risk line, helping them to plan for the future.

Coastal businesses have been invited to a project launch on May 20, at 2.30pm at Woodland Leisure Park, Trimingham. This event will be followed by an open evening from 5pm to 7.30pm, which is open to all.

The launch event will allow businesses to learn more about the free comprehensive advice and express their interest in the programme. Qualifying businesses will be eligible for the following:

An initial diagnostic health check and business action planning

Specialist and specific business advice

The option to develop or refresh a business plan

The option to apply for further Pathfinder initiatives including investment opportunities, support in “rolling back” from at-risk areas and possible property purchase/lease arrangements ongoing aftercare.

Because some coastal businesses find it difficult to access investment from mainstream sources, the project will look at setting up a fund specifically for coastal businesses so they can invest for the future.

The projects are part of a national scheme to trial coastal initiatives and the success and the lessons learned will be fed back to the government to inform the future support available for coastal businesses and communities nationally.

For further information, or an invitation to the launch, please contact Jose Socao on 01263 516303 or by e-mail at jose.socao@north-norfolk.gov.uk.