DOZENS of jobs could be granted under a scheme aimed at breathing new life into Herefordshire's redundant buildings.

The Marches LEP (Local Enterprise Partnership) Redundant Building Grant Scheme will see about £1million put on offer to small businesses in the county which could bring unused buildings back into productive economic use.

All projects funded by the current scheme need to be completed by next June meaning applicants are being urged to enquire as soon as possible.

Some work has already started, including the opening of Border Bean Coffee Shop and Gallery in Kington which was transformed from a 50-year-old hardware store.

The project was made possible thanks to a £12,000 grant.

“We’re delighted to have so quickly achieved our aim of creating a social hub for the town, supporting community cohesion, and becoming a meeting place for different groups, both young and old," said coffee shop co-owner Beccy Haydon.

"We've received many very positive reviews and people appreciate the quality finish that we’ve put in place.”

Another Herefordshire business to have benefitted is Bromyard-based Sporting Saint, a specialist supplier and manufacturer of gundog training equipment.

The £45,000 it received allowed renovation work on a redundant farm building that will soon become its new home.

“Since meeting the grant team back in 2012 their support and guidance has been invaluable," said Pip Kendrick, Sporting Saint owner.

"They’ve always been very knowledgeable and have guided us through the grant application alongside the planning requirements.”

Grants manager Caroline Cattle said those businesses looking for funds should get in touch quickly. "The difference that the Redundant Buildings Grant has already made to so many small businesses across Herefordshire cannot be underestimated," she said.

"Businesses have been enabled to grow and diversify and take advantage of markets that they wouldn’t have been able to enter without the ability themselves to physically grow.

"Many small businesses have already benefited from the scheme and put the funds to really good use - it would be great to see more do likewise, but I’d urge them to act quickly.”

Grants between £3,000 - £100,000 are available.

Businesses interested in finding out more should call 01432 260662 or email rbgscheme@herefordshire.gov.uk