A REGENERATION programme for Oswestry is reaching out to support small and start-up independent businesses.

Shropshire Council is looking for residents to comment on their plans having secured XX of funding from High Street Heritage Action Zones (HSHAZ) government-funded programme managed by Historic England.

The HSHAZ seeks to regenerate the town centre working with business and local communities with a view to repairing historic assets, developing arts and cultural events, and investing in tourism opportunities.

A spokesman said: "As part of the successful funding application for Oswestry town centre, the proposal included a ‘flagship project’ to support local business in their development together with encouraging wider networking between business/supply chains.

"The working vision of the Oswestry Heritage Action Zone Flagship project is:

- To support the small and start up independent business community of Oswestry to start up, grow and thrive through the establishment of a business hub in Oswestry town centre, creating a venue for community, culture and collaboration.

- To help test this, local businesses and residents are being asked to help with a number of key questions which will help to inform and shape the project.

"The findings of the survey will help to assess the need for a dedicated space which could be supported through a contribution of HSHAZ funding to develop such a flagship."

To take part in the questionnaire visit www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/Oswestry/