Twenty properties in Pembroke and Pembroke Dock have benefited from improvements over the past two years, thanks to Pembrokeshire County Council's Commercial Property Grants scheme.

Since its launch in 2011, over £858,000 has been spent restoring buildings in the conservation areas of both towns, revitalising the area's rich heritage.

The spend comprises private investment by owners and over £394,000 from the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government.

The county council's cabinet member for economy, tourism and communities, David Pugh, said the scheme had been a great success story.

"The improvements to these buildings have not only been considered essential structurally but they have also had a striking visible impact in the two towns," he added.

"And the good news is that further grant funding is still available."

One example of improvement is 31 Dimond Street in Pembroke Dock which, until fairly recently, had been empty for over four years and was generally considered to be an eyesore.

The work carried out on the property by local architects Pembroke Design Limited, succeeded in attracting Hazel Clode who ran a florists, Callamango Flowers, next door.

She explained: "I loved the restoration work which had been carried out and I could see its potential so I decided to expand and move in, still keeping my original shop.

"I'm delighted to say, I have since seen an increase in business.

"Every day, we have people coming in and complimenting me on the shop, saying how it brightens up the street and how light and airy it is inside.

"It gives me a good feeling when so many people come in and comment on my beautiful shop."

Other previously vacant properties now filled following improvement work include 25 Dimond Street (occupied by Pembroke Dock Encompass Group/Community Hub) and nearby No. 27, occupied by Bargain Booze plus.

Other Pembroke Dock buildings which have benefited are: 29 Dimond Street (now Sartori Stores); 55 Bush Street (Club Martello); and 10 Meyrick Street (Llanion Communities First).

The town of Pembroke has also benefited from successful improvements.

In Main Street, renovated properties include three considered to hold prominent positions in the town: 24 Main Street (Redwing Travel Agency); 83-85 Main Street (Kingston Veterinary Group); and 13 Main Street (The Kings Arms Hotel).

A fourth, 50 Main Street, now occupied by the Pembroke Kebab House, forms part of the ancient town wall.

With funding still available, for more information about the Council's Commercial Property Grant, contact Melissa Howells on 01437 776180. For those based in the Pembroke Dock Conservation Area, ring David Davies on 01437 775055.