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Businesses hit by local and national lockdown restrictions are being invited to apply for new government  funding.

Â鶹ÊÓƵ has received an allocation of £2,909,214 for around 1,750 businesses that are eligible for the grants.

The Local Restrictions Support Grant (Open) is available to firms in the hospitality, leisure and accommodation sectors that have been impacted by enhanced local restrictions which were in place from 18 September to 4 November. 

The council has already contacted businesses eligible for this grant directly, however if any local firm believes they have been overlooked, they should get in touch. Backdated grants ranging from £934 up to £2,100 per 28-day period, depending on the rateable value of the property, are available.

A grant, up to a maximum of £3,000, is also available to businesses which were mandated to close when the second national lockdown came into effect on 5 November, and which occupy commercial premises included in the ratings list.  This includes non-essential retail, hospitality venues, accommodation, leisure and sport facilities, entertainment venues, personal care facilities and community centres and halls. Again, anyone who has not been targeted directly should contact the council.

Cllr John Anglin, Lead Member for Regeneration and Economy, said: "The Borough's businesses, large and small, are the backbone of our economy and they are once again facing extremely tough times.

"It's important that they access all the help available to them and we have a dedicated team working tirelessly to ensure they get the aid they are entitled to.

"If your business has been forced to close in the latest lockdown, or has been significantly affected by local restrictions, and you haven't yet been contacted by the council, we urge you to apply.

"You could be eligible for a grant of up to £3,000."

For further details including how to apply, visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/localrestrictionssupportgrant