Local businesses that have had to close due to the national coronavirus restrictions are being invited by Chichester District Council to apply for a one off grant payment.
Local Restrictions Support Grants are available for any business that has to close during the current national restrictions period from 5 November – 2 December 2020.
There are three rates of grant payments, ranging from £1,334 for businesses with a rateable value of £15,000 or lower; £2,000 for businesses with a rateable value over £15,000, but less than £51,000; and £3,000 for businesses with a rateable value of £51,000 or above.
Pubs and restaurants that are closed, but continue to operate by offering a takeaway only service, are also eligible to apply.
Businesses are encouraged to apply for assistance at www.chichester.gov.uk/businessratesnovember2020.
Councillor Peter Wilding, Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate Services and Revenues and Benefits at Chichester District Council, said: “This has been a tough year for businesses and we want to make sure that all businesses that are eligible for this support receive the help they are entitled to as quickly as possible.
“Businesses that were open prior to the current national coronavirus restrictions but have now been forced to close, in line with the current government restrictions, are eligible and will receive one of three rates of payment, depending on their rateable value.
“Businesses are now able to apply by following a simple process on our website at www.chichester.gov.uk/businessratesnovember2020. We’ve also provided the very latest support and information for businesses on this page. We are also working as fast as we can to set up the government’s discretionary grant scheme. As soon as this is ready, it will appear on the same web page.
“I’d also like to mention that the council’s Economic Development team is also on hand to help throughout the period of national coronavirus restrictions and beyond, making sure that businesses are aware of all the help that is available. Businesses can get in touch with them by emailing [email protected] or calling 01243 534669.”
The council has created a range of pages on its website with answers to frequently asked questions. For information about the range of support available for businesses, visit: www.chichester.gov.uk/covidbusinesssupport.
Businesses can also keep up to date by signing up the council’s free email newsletter, EBiz: www.chichester.gov.uk/ebizsignup and the council’s general email newsletter: www.chichester.gov.uk/newsalerts. Both newsletters offer a great way to receive updates on the latest Government guidance and help during the coronavirus outbreak.
