Barking shops set for makeover

By Jim Dunton - Wed 29 May 2013, 2:32 pm

Up to 50 shops in Barking town centre are set to get free shutter or shop-front facelifts as part of a drive to improve the district's appearance.

Barking Town Team’s “Paint the Town” initiative is offering either artistic shutter makeovers or improved signs using cash from the London Mayor Boris Johnson’s Outer London Fund.

The project follows a pilot that saw local businesses The Sandwich Shop and Excel Women Centre transform their appearance.

Barking & Dagenham’s divisional director for regeneration and economic development Jeremy Grint said the scheme was a great opportunity.

“Adding distinct artwork to shop fronts can dramatically enhance their visual appearance,” he said.

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