A pilot scheme could soon brighten up empty shopfronts in Welshpool with colourful displays.
Welshpool Town Council is considering a plan to improve the appearance of vacant commercial units in the town centre using temporary window displays.
The scheme will be discussed at the council’s Operations and Development Committee meeting on September 9.
Richard Williams, town clerk and responsible finance officer, said: "The Council's proposed scheme would not seek to conceal the fact that premises are available.
"Instead, it would make empty properties more attractive while providing an opportunity to promote Welshpool, local attractions, events and the availability of the premises themselves."
The proposal is part of the council’s Interim Strategic Plan and aims to address the negative visual impact of empty shopfronts.
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The plan states that vacant units can give an impression of decline, even when nearby businesses are open and trading.
Under the scheme, temporary displays would be installed behind shop windows with the permission of landlords or agents.
Displays could include large-format printed banners featuring photos of the town, artwork from schools and community groups, and other creative designs.
Some displays could be reused or moved to other properties as units become occupied.
If access to a property is not possible or conditions inside are unsuitable, officers suggest using freestanding fencing with printed mesh banners as a temporary screen.
However, the report notes that this approach should be used only in exceptional cases, as it would require additional permissions and raise liability issues.
The council would need written permission from property owners or agents before installing any displays.
Advertising consent requirements would also need to be considered for each display, based on size, location, and content.
The scheme would be funded from an existing £500 allocation in the 2026/27 budget.
Officers believe this would be enough for a pilot covering two to four prominent vacant units, depending on size and installation costs.
Councillors are being asked to approve the scheme, authorise officers to negotiate with landlords and agents, and commission design and printing work within the approved budget.
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