Helping the hospitality sector reopen

Grants of between £250 and £7,500 are available to support businesses with the adaptations they need to improve their outdoor facilities and help make them Covid secure. The fund will pay for up to 75% of the cost of the adaption.

South Norfolk Cabinet member Lisa Neal said:

“The food and drink sector has been one of the hardest hit by the restrictions that have been in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. From 12 April they will be able to serve customers outside, but some will need additional financial support to help them adapt their business, so that this can happen safely.”

Cllr Jo Copplestone, Broadland District Council’s Economic Development portfolio holder said:

“We have been supporting businesses throughout the lockdowns and now we must help them reopen as safely as possible. These grants will help our local businesses to recover and give customers the confidence to return.”

The grants will be available to those that have placed orders or commissioned work since the government’s roadmap was announced on 22 February, as well as those yet to make adaptations.

The fund will provide up to 75% funding towards any outdoor equipment or structures to help allow businesses to reopen safely. This includes:

• outdoor furniture, heating and lighting
• insulation
• weather-shielding equipment, such as wind breaks, umbrellas

And items to support social distancing:

• temporary structures to keep waiting visitors dry or safe, such as awnings or marquees.
• improvised waiting areas, reception areas or ticket offices

Where a property is listed, correct regulatory permissions must be obtained before work takes place. In cases where businesses intend to use highway land, they should also apply for a pavement license. The grant will also cover planning permission costs as part of the application.

For more information and to find out if your business meets the criteria please visit the South Norfolk Council business grant page or the Broadland District Council business grant page.