Nus Ghani, MP for Wealden, has welcomed the Chancellor’s announcement of new grants for businesses in light of the latest national lockdown.
Following the Prime Minister’s announcement that these businesses will be closed until at least February half-term in order to help control the virus, retail, hospitality and leisure business premises forced to close can claim a one-off grant of up to £9,000. Local authorities will receive the funding for the new one-off grants next week and are being encouraged to make payments to businesses as soon as possible. Over 600,000 retail, hospitality and leisure business premises in England could benefit from these grants.
This one-off grant is in addition to the existing monthly Local Restriction Support Grants of up to £3,000 per month that businesses continue to be eligible for to help them through the winter. Businesses can receive multiple grants, as they are eligible on a per premises basis.
A further £500 million is also being made available for Local Authorities to support other businesses not eligible for the grants, that might be affected by the restrictions. Businesses should apply to their Local Authorities.
The Government has also provided 100% business rates relief for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses, extended the furlough scheme to April and extended the 100% government backed loans until March.
Nus Ghani said: “I’ve worked tirelessly to keep Wealden out of the toughest level of restrictions under the tier system and it is regrettable to be in a third national lockdown. The unintended consequences of lockdown run deep in Wealden and our businesses are on their knees. Wealden District Council has done a great job in supporting our businesses and communities throughout the past year, and I am delighted that this additional funding will enable our local leaders to continue to support our struggling businesses through to the spring. I encourage business owners to check the eligibility criteria and get in touch with Wealden District Council to access this much needed boost.”
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