Details of how peninsula businesses can get new lockdown grants released

By Derek Davis

12th Nov 2020 | Local News

Businesses on the Shotley Peninsula who have had to close their doors to customers as part of the current national lockdown may be eligible for a second wave of grant funding.

As businesses across the country once again face restrictions as part of the nationwide strategy to help control the spread of Covid-19, the Government has launched the Local Restrictions Business Support Grant.

The Local Restrictions Business Support Grant is open to businesses who were trading as usual at the start of the week from November 2, who are liable for business rates and are one of the businesses required to close during the second lockdown.

The grants will be administered by Babergh District Council to businesses in the region once they have applied via the councils' website.

The value of the grant will vary depending on the rateable value of the business premises and will be paid as one-off grants to cover a 28-day period from 5 November to 2 December 2020.

Businesses with a rateable value under £15,000 will receive £1,334 while businesses rated between £15,001 to £50,999 will receive £2,000. Finally, businesses with a rateable value over £51,000 will receive £3,000 for a 28-day period.

Once the application is submitted, the grants will be paid directly to the business bank account as quickly as possible. There is no charge to apply for the Local Restrictions Business Support Grant and businesses are urged to be wary of any organisations who suggest they are working on behalf of any local authorities for a fee.

The Local Restriction Support Grant is available to those businesses who have been instructed to close due to Covid-19 lockdown restrictions. Businesses closed to customers but offering a click and collect or delivery service are still eligible for the grant.

In addition to the Local Restriction Support Grant, the Government has allocated additional funding for a discretionary grant called the Additional Restrictions Grant. Further details about which businesses will be eligible to apply for this grant will be announced soon.

Cllr Michael Holt, Babergh District Council, cabinet member for economic growth said:

"With businesses having to close their doors for a second time, it is more important than ever that those who are eligible for these grants seize the opportunity and apply as soon as possible.

"I would also encourage businesses to find out what other financial support and advice is available by visiting the Government and the New Anglia Growth Hub websites."

More information about the Local Restrictions Business Grants and the application forms can be found by visiting www.babergh.gov.uk

A full list of business required to close during the second lockdown can be found on the Government website here...