A BAKERY based in Ilkley is the first business to receive a grant from Bradford Council as part of its new district growth scheme.

Moin Moin Bäckerei, which was founded in Rawdon, was awarded a £6,000 rates relief to expand its operations and open a craft bakery in Ilkley.

The bakery, in Brook Street, stocks a range of 27 different breads, 40 confectionary items, sandwiches, and artisan coffee.

Breads include sourdough, spelt and honey loaves, as well as Fränzbrotchen imported from Hamburg, where the inspiration for the shop was first thought of by owner Liam Wilton.

The company has invested £45,000 in fitting out the shop and new equipment, as has hired three new members of staff.

Liam Wilton took over the Moin Moin after living in the German city of Hamburg for four years.

Unveiled earlier this year, the District Growth Scheme supports the district to achieve growth ambitions set out in the Economic Growth Strategy.

Grants allow firms to invest and grow and address challenges identified in the strategy, such as bringing unused and at risk buildings back into active commercial use, creating new employment, and bringing new investment into the district.

It follows a similar programme designed for the city centre which was set up in 2012 and has drawn investment and jobs into the heart of Bradford, resulting in Barclays naming Bradford as the best city in the UK to start a business in 2017.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, portfolio holder for regeneration, planning and transport, said: “The Bradford District Growth Scheme is designed to encourage businesses to set up or expand in the district so we are thrilled to see such a high quality business making the most of this opportunity.

“I encourage any business looking for investment opportunities to contact our team who can tell them about the kind of support we offer.”

The District Growth Scheme offers rate reliefs for a range of investments, including new build commercial developments, bringing heritage buildings back into active commercial use, and for businesses moving into Bingley, Shipley, Keighley and Ilkley town centres.

For more information about the scheme visit investinbradford.com or call 01274 437727.