A million euros has been earmarked for subsidies to encourage shops to change from completely closed shutters to others allowing passers-by to see inside, even when the shutters are down. The idea behind these types of see-through shutters is to make city commerce and shopping streets more attractive from the outside, at the same time preventing unwanted graffiti. The prevision is to subsidise new shutters for some 500 premises.

The subsidies come as part of the “Shutters up” programme and applications can be submitted via the project website up until 30 September. Establishments which have already changed their blinds or plan to do so in 2022 can apply for subsidies.

Owners of commercial activities, services, bars and restaurants, nightlife venues and tourist establishments in on-street premises can apply, as can others with the authorisation of the owner.

Each shutter replaced may be subsidised by up to 2,000 euros maximum. The same owner may apply for up to three subsidies for changing shutters. Costs which may be covered by the subsidy are those directly relating to the supply, transport and installation of shutters.

Barcelona Activa will be in charge of awarding the subsidies, in the order applications are received and until the budget has been used up.

The subsidies come in addition to the amount set aside to help shops and restaurants go digital, with a budget of 750,000 euros.