A SCHEME to fill empty shops in Ruislip Manor and Northwood Hills is giving new businesses a helping hand.
The Meanwhile in the Manor project has opened in the former Shakes milkshake shop at 93, Victoria Road, Ruislip Manor.
Run by Hillingdon Council and the company Meanwhile Space, the community interest company would occupy empty shops until a suitable business can be found to move in.
Throughout last week events were held at the Ruislip Manor shop, including window dressing advice, and, on Saturday, a free bag printing workshop.
In the long term however, the council and Meanwhile Space are looking for start-up businesses, existing businesses, community groups and creative projects to open in the vacant shop.
They are running a competition where the winner will get a three month tenure rent and rates free, in return for providing a benefit to the community.
Businesses must enter their ideas for use of the space then pitch them to a panel of judges – in Dragon's Den style – made up of councillors, chamber of commerce members and local business people.
One-hour workshops for would-be applicants are at the Meanwhile in the Manor shop on October 17, 18 and 31, and November 13, at 4pm, 5pm and 6pm.
The deadline for competition entries is November 19.
* Visit www.meanwhilespace.com for more information and to download an information pack and application form.
