A coronavirus business grant support schemes has been extended to non-essential retailers, wholesalers and suppliers in South Lakeland.
South Lakeland District Council reviewed the Local Restrictions Support Grant for Open businesses to widen the eligibility criteria, having given grants to over 1,300 businesses already through this scheme.
The scheme was originally aimed at leisure and hospitality businesses severely impacted by the Tier 2 restrictions in December, but not legally required to close.
It has now been opened up to include independent non-essential retailers, wholesalers and suppliers (where over 50 per cent of their trade is to the leisure, hospitality, visitor economy and non-essential retail sectors) and other businesses that have suffered as a result of tier-related restrictions.
Independent retailers and wholesale and supply businesses have until March 31 to apply, as do those leisure and hospitality businesses that have yet to apply.
Councillor Robin Ashcroft, portfolio holder for economy, culture and leisure, said: “Businesses that believe they now qualify for this grant through this expanded criteria should go online to check their eligibility and to apply as soon as possible.
“Supporting businesses in South Lakeland through these tough times is one of our main priorities and SLDC is committed to doing everything we can to make sure they get through this and recover.”
Meanwhile, we have now received confirmation from Government that the Local Restrictions Support Grant for Closed Businesses will continue until March 31.
Further business grant information is expected as part of the government’s Spring Budget statement tomorrow.
More details of this and other support grants available and application forms can be found at www.southlakeland.gov.uk.
