BUSINESSES in Warwickshire have been given a welcome boost with the launch of a new campaign to help the high street.

Operation Footfall is a £400,000 scheme to bring shoppers and restaurant goers into the county’s high streets and reverse the recent trend which has seen big retail chains such as HMV and Comet go into administration.

The campaign, part of the Warwickshire County Council’s (WCC) Going for Growth agenda, is inviting businesses and community groups to apply for grants to develop a range initiatives to encourage footfall.

Proposals for food festivals, big screen events, pop-up shops or even free parking could be considered.

Councillor Alan Farnell, leader of WCC, said: “Operation Footfall is a major campaign which gives local businesses the opportunity to help us give the economy a much-needed boost.

“Funding will be allocated to a range of initiatives designed to revitalise Warwickshire’s market towns and town centres.”

Applications can be made for grants of up to £30,000. For details visit warwickshire.gov.uk/operationfootfall.