The money, given to Thanet council by the government, can be used to fund items including the fit-out of the premises, buying equipment, and cleaning and decorating the premises.

Businesses must set up in property that has been empty for at least a month and it will need to be accessible to the public and have a sound business plan.

The money cannot be used for day-to-day management or administration costs and will be aimed at specific businesses.

Support is not available to high street chains or if public money has already been used to refurbish the empty unit.

Cllr Roger Latchford, who speaks for the council on economic development and regeneration, said: "This money gives us the chance to bring some of the empty shops in Margate and Ramsgate back into use.

“We want to use this money to give small businesses a boost and, at the same time, stop empty shops becoming an eyesore. I'm sure this will be a popular scheme and we look forward to seeing lots of applications coming forward."