Charnwood businesses claim grants

Charnwood Borough Council has distributed more than 90% of government funding to help businesses through the Coronavirus pandemic.

They say so far 2,442 businesses have received grants totalling £29.46 million since the funding was made available in April.

Ccouncillor Tom Barkley, deputy leader and lead member for finance and property services, said: “Staff across the council are working incredibly hard to pay as much money as possible to businesses in need of support.

“Knowing we have been able to help so many businesses is heartening, but we will continue to look at further ways to help companies across the borough to work through these difficult times.”

The council was allocated a funding pot of £32 million to support local businesses, with eligibility criteria set by the government.

Grants of £10,000 and £25,000 have been distributed to eligible businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors. Businesses in receipt of business rate discounts have also received funding.

The government recently announced a further scheme to support businesses who have yet to benefit from grants. A fund of £1.6 million is available in Charnwood.

A spokesperson from the Borough Council said work continues to produce these in Charnwood and it is hoped funds will be available in June.