Â鶹ÊÓƵ

Â鶹ÊÓƵ is reassuring businesses that it is there to support them through the latest national lockdown and beyond.

At the start of the pandemic, the council set up a dedicated hub to help local firms unlock government grants and other vital financial aid.

It has already distributed more than £28 million in grants to 3,712 businesses in the Borough.

And following the Chancellor's announcement of further one-off top up grants of between £4,000 and £9,000 for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses, the council will continue to support any business which is legally required to close, and which can't operate remotely.

Cllr Tracey Dixon, Leader of Â鶹ÊÓƵ, said: "The past few months have been a profoundly difficult time for our business community.

"As someone who has always worked in the hospitality industry, I unfortunately understand only too well the impact that the restrictions are having on businesses.

"The council is here to support businesses and ensure that they access any financial support they are entitled to as quickly as possible.

"We are still awaiting detail around the Chancellor's latest announcement about top-up grants and will update businesses as soon as we know more.

"Our local firms, big and small, are the cornerstone of the Borough's economy and it's vital that we support them through this crisis in any way we can.

"We have a dedicated team working tirelessly to make sure they claim any financial aid and other support they can."

The council is also continuing to pay the Local Restriction Grant to closed businesses.

As well as distributing financial support, the council has provided environmental health advice and guidance to businesses to ensure employees, customers and visitors can operate in Covid-secure environments. 

For further information, visit /article/69287/Businesses or contact the Business Support Hub on 0191 481 3456.