Business grant deadline looming

There's not long left for Charnwood businesses impacted by the coronavirus pandemic to apply for government grants before the schemes close.

Charnwood Borough Council has already issued a total of £31.6 million in government grants to over 2,600 businesses across the borough, but some of the funding remains in respect of the Small Business Grants Fund and the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grants Fund. 

Under grant scheme rules, any funding unclaimed by businesses must be returned to the Treasury. The Government has announced the closure of the scheme by the end of the month.

Councillor Tom Barkley, Deputy Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Finance and Property Services, said: “These grants have been vital to our local economy, helping ensure the survival of shops, cafes, restaurants and many other businesses. 

“The government has announced the closure of the schemes as the vast majority of eligible businesses have now claimed grants, but there is still time to apply if you think you could be entitled. 

“If you haven’t been in touch with us about the grants, please do so as soon as possible. After 28 August we must return any of the remaining grants, and we would like to ensure as much of it remains with borough businesses as possible.” 

The government announced the Small Business Grants Fund and the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grants Fund in April. The Council has so far provided nearly 2,500 businesses with some £30m from these funds. 

Businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors along with those classed as ‘A2’ uses, such as estate agents and bingo halls, are eligible for a grant of £10,000 if their rateable value is up to £15,000, or £25,000 with a rateable value of up to £51,000. 

Businesses in any sector that receive a Small Business Rate Relief reduction on their business rate bills can also claim a grant of £10,000. 

The nationally-funded Discretionary Grant Fund, for previously ineligible businesses with fixed property costs was launched in Charnwood on 3 June and closed for applications on 29 June. Some 185 businesses were awarded a total of £1.6 million, being the whole amount available within this scheme.