Empty to Energised Grant

Providing financial assistance to property owners who want to renovate vacant properties and introduce new commercial uses. Funded by Ards and North Down Borough Council.

Empty to Energised Pilot Grant Scheme

Ards and North Down Borough Council is pleased to announce the launch of the Empty to Energised Pilot Grant Scheme, the second strand of the Supporting Thriving High Streets Programme.

The Empty to Energised Pilot Grant Scheme is funded entirely by the Council. The scheme aims to help property owners revitalise vacant premises in Bangor City and Newtownards Town Centre.

The scheme offers financial assistance to renovate empty commercial properties, making them fit for purpose and ready to occupy. By bringing vacant spaces back into use, the scheme seeks to boost town centre vibrancy, attract new tenants, increase footfall, create local employment opportunities, and promote sustainability in redevelopment projects.

The Empty to Energised Pilot Grant Scheme provides a capital grant of up to £25,000 per property located in Bangor City or Newtownards Town Centre, covering up to 80% of eligible renovation costs. The property must have been vacant for a minimum of 12 months at the time of application. A minimum 20% match funding contribution is required from the applicant.

The Grant opens for applications on Monday 5th January 2026 at 12 noon and closes for applications on Monday 16th February 2026 at 12 noon.

Dates for your diary: online information sessions

To find out more, register your interest to attend one of our upcoming online information sessions: 

Wednesday 3rd December at 6:00pm
Thursday 4th December at 10:00am and 2:00pm

These sessions will provide further information on the application process and provide an opportunity to ask any questions. Registration is required, contact emptytoenergised@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk.

 Download the Applicant Guidance Notes and the Boundary Maps below to help you prepare in advance of the scheme opening. The guidance provides information on eligibility, the application process and the required documentation to submit as part of your application. 

Empty to Energised - Applicant Guidance Notes (PDF, 395 KB) (opens new window)

Empty to Energised - Appendix 1 Boundary Maps (PDF, 1 MB) (opens new window)

Empty to Energised - Appendix 2 Project Description Guidance Notes (PDF, 176 KB) (opens new window)

Empty to Energised - Appendix 3 Assessment Matrix (PDF, 140 KB) (opens new window)

For enquiries, please contact emptytoenergised@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk.