Council launches second round of Additional Restrictions Grant scheme for local businesses

Hastings Borough Council has launched the second round of its Additional Restrictions Grant for local businesses impacted by COVID-19. This scheme covers from the 18 December 2020 to the 31 March 2021.

To be eligible businesses must be experiencing a severe impact as a result of the pandemic. This means a reduced turnover of 30% or more in the period 1 April 2020 to date of application, in comparison to the previous year.

Businesses can find full eligibility criteria, and how to apply, on the council's website at https://www.hastings.gov.uk/my-council/covid19/businesses/funding/arg-scheme/

Cllr Peter Chowney, lead councillor for financial management and estates, said,

"We are glad to finally have the second round of our Additional Restrictions Grant open for applications. We want to make sure as many businesses across the town get the help they need to recover from the impacts of COVID-19, especially as we head forwards on the Government's roadmap out of lockdown.

"For this round, £2 million is available and applications will close on 1 April 2021 or whenever the £2 million is spent - whichever comes first. However, if there is still money left by then, the scheme could be extended.

"Businesses will not be able to apply if they have received previous COVID-19 business grants since 1 April 2020 which exceed the fixed costs incurred, such as business rates, rent, utility costs, and so on, or exceed the reduction in turnover.

"Businesses should make sure to read our policy and eligibility criteria before applying to make sure they fully understand the scope of this scheme.

"We are also aware that the Government is providing further funding under the Local Restriction Support Grant scheme (Addendum 5 January 2021) to cover the 44 days between 16 February and 31 March 2021. We aim to begin distributing this funding once it has been received from the Government. Most of those eligible will have already applied for the previous period and therefore already be on our system, so the funding will be paid automatically.

"Once again, we appreciate that keeping up to date with all these business grant schemes is difficult and we are doing all we can to make it clear, and make sure the money gets to those who need it. For further information on all available business grant schemes, please go to our website."