About the Longtown Market Town Initiative

What is Longtown Market Town Initiative (MTI)?

Who is responsible for Longtown MTI?

Where does the funding come from?

How long is the funding available?

What has the MTI achieved so far?

How will the initiative help Longtown?

What is Longtown MTI doing for individuals?

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What is Longtown Market Town Initiative (MTI)?           Return to top
Longtown MTI is a regeneration programme specifically developed to overcome some of the economic problems the area faces and is likely to face in the future.

The aim is to improve the economy of Longtown by helping people like you, living in the area, to improve your income-earning ability and by helping businesses to develop and grow. It is administered by the Longtown and District Enterprise Trust.

Who is responsible for Longtown MTI?                            Return to top
Longtown MTI is a project of Longtown and District Enterprise Trust. The board has a maximum of 12 people and is made up from volunteers within the MTI area. Some members are from outwith the area, but with an interest in Longtown and its projects. It is chaired by Melvyn Redgers of the Longtown & District Enterprise Trust.

The Trust works in partnership with Carlisle City Council to deliver the Longtown Market Town Initiative. They are the ‘accountable body’ and manage the finances of the programme.

Helen Sykes is the Programme Manager for the Longtown MTI while Joanna Tate is on maternity leave. Helen is responsible for the delivery of programme activity and she leads the team based at the MTI office in Longtown.

Where does the funding come from?                                Return to top

• Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA)
  NWDA are providing £1 million worth of funding. NWDA is one of nine regional development agencies established by the Government to develop the English regions and it is responsible for the sustainable economic development and regeneration of the North West of England.
• Carlisle City Council
  Carlisle City Council is providing a contribution towards staff costs over 3 years.
• North Pennines Leader+
  North Pennines Leader+ is providing a contribution towards staff and office running costs.

How long is the funding available?                                   Return to top
The funding started when staff came into post in November 2005 and MTI funding will come to an end in March 2008.

This means that all grants through the Longtown MTI programme will come to an end in March 2008. Applications are likely to be accepted up to November 2007 so that there is time to spend the money allocated and claim before the end of March 2008.

What has the MTI achieved so far?                                   Return to top
Up to the end of April 2007, Longtown MTI had helped 52 different businesses in the Longtown area with Business Expansion Grants, training grants, marketing support and business advice. More than 30 jobs have been created in the past year and £440 k has already been allocated or spent.

How will the initiative help Longtown?                       Return to top

• Townscape Project
  Funding is being provided to enhance key commercial areas of Longtown. This will include Swan Street. Features of the Townscape Project include:
  - Sandstone paved footpaths distinct from parking
  - Restricted parking bays
  - Additional lime trees

  “These visible developments will help toward the creation of a more vibrant commercial core. An attractive tree-lined street with sandstone paving and organised parking will make it easier for residents to stop and shop in Longtown.As a result of this we should see an increase in property prices in the enhanced area, with positive knock on effects for the town as a whole.”
  Melvyn Redgers, Chair of the Longtown & District Enterprise Trust

• Tourism Support
  The project is identifying ways of increasing the tourism potential of the town and surrounding area. Increasing the number of tourists will provide more custom for local business, benefiting retailers and accommodation providers in and around the town.

  “Promoting the area as a whole under the Debateable Lands banner is enabling the various local businesses that rely on tourism to make the most of the opportunities available and to work together for growth.”
  Helen Sykes, Programme Manager, Longtown MTI

• Support for Businesses
  The MTI should be the first port of call for businesses located within the MTI area who are looking for information or advice on any aspect of business.

  “We will either help you ourselves or put you in touch with the right person in the right organisation.”
  Bev Bamford, Business Adviser

In addition to this, we have a range of programmes to help you to grow your business:
- Business Expansion Grants
- Marketing Grants
- Training Support

What is Longtown MTI doing for individuals?               Return to top
If you are looking to get a job, change your job or career path, or make yourself more attractive to employers, then Longtown MTI can help you, or put you in touch with someone who can.

Some specific training programmes are being delivered locally while we also offer training grants to encourage individuals to take up learning opportunities elsewhere.