Funding boost for hardest hit businesses
Businesses that are continuing to be severely affected by the coronavirus restrictions can now apply to their local councils for further government funding.
The new Fixed Costs Support Grant, distributed to local businesses by Broadland District and South Norfolk Councils, will support those sectors still subject to trading restrictions, including businesses that operate within events, conferences, weddings, live entertainment, group travel and holidays and those most dependent on these sectors for their turnover.
Councillor Lisa Neal, South Norfolk Cabinet member for Stronger Economy, said:
“This new funding will support some of our worst-hit businesses and help ensure that when restrictions lift, they are ready to reopen and bounce back.”
Broadland District Council’s Portfolio holder for Economic Development, Councillor Jo Copplestone, said:
“It’s been a tough year for most of our local businesses, but the tourism, events and entertainment sector has fared worse than most, with many unable to operate at all since last March. This money will come as a welcome relief and help them get through the last few weeks of restrictions.”
The grant is the third round of support to come from the government’s Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) funding, which has been available to support local businesses since December 2020.
Under this phase of the scheme, support is limited to certain business sectors, meaning the councils are unable to consider applications from retail, self-contained holiday accommodation, takeaways, those that operate within the personal care sector or any other business able to reopen since 12 April 2021.
Businesses can check if they are eligible and apply on the Broadland District Council website or the South Norfolk Council website.