Entrepreneurs, start-up businesses and other small local companies are being offered an exciting opportunity to showcase their products, as part of a major restoration project in the heart of Southall.

As you may have read on Ealing News Extra already, Southall Manor House is currently undergoing extensive refurbishment and will be reopened as a catering and hospitality hub supporting jobs, skills and enterprise. It is a project by Ealing Council in partnership with West London College. You can view a number of progress photos here.

The Manor House will also host a high-end restaurant and events space. As part of this project, a small and disused mock-Tudor building at the front of the Manor House has been refurbished to a high standard and given a new lease of life as a commercial kiosk. Once the work on the Manor House itself is completed later this year, the kiosk will become part of the catering and hospitality hub that will be run by a community interest company set up by the council and college.

Ahead of this, the partners are giving budding entrepreneurs the chance to showcase their products and services in the kiosk. Ideally, they are looking for a unique food or beverage seller, in line with the Manor House project, and the kiosk is fitted with kitchen facilities. But any local business can come forward with alternative ideas – as long as they have not previously traded in a retail shop. The public space in front of the kiosk has recently benefited from improvements as well and has been redesigned to host events and outdoor activities, giving businesses using the kiosk the opportunity to extend into this newly refurbished area.

Why should I apply?

This is an excellent platform to showcase and test your venture in a ‘real-world’ commercial setting, without a large up-front investment or long-term commitments. You will gain first-hand retail experience with your products or services on the high street, which will help you to determine the next steps for your business.

What is the application process?

Applications will be assessed by a judging panel comprising of representatives from Ealing Council. The judges will ask to meet shortlisted applicants and see examples of their products or services.

How do I apply? Look no further…

To apply, you will need to complete this downloadable application form. Then return it by email to regeneration@ealing.gov.uk or by post to Economic Regeneration, Ealing Council, Perceval House, 14-16 Uxbridge Road, London, W5 2HL.

Application closing date is Thursday, 30 June 2017.

There is more information on the application process and background to the kiosk available to view and download here.

If you have any further questions, you should email regeneration@ealing.gov.uk