This report seeks approval for the further development and delivery of the Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) scheme which was originally to provide financial support to businesses until the end of 2021/2022 financial year during and outside National Lockdown or COVID Alert Level Tier 3 (Very High) restriction periods.

In accepting the recommendations, Cabinet will approve and recommend to Council that the remaining Additional Restriction Grant is used to set up £400,000 ‘Additional Restrictions Grant Business Support Grants’ as detailed in paragraph 2.8 and 2.9 of the report; and allocate £100,000 to LEP Business Support Activities as detailed in paragraph 2.10 of the report.

The subject of the decision:

This report sought approval for the further development and delivery of the Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) scheme which was originally to provide financial support to businesses until the end of 2021/2022 financial year during and outside National Lockdown or COVID Alert Level Tier 3 (Very High) restriction periods.

Alternative options considered:

None.

The reason for the decision:

Cabinet was satisfied that the Additional Restrictions Grant scheme supported individual businesses and could also support the wider economic area and for funding business support activities, advice and guidance for businesses and skills training to support their ability to trade in changed circumstances.

The decision:

That Cabinet approves and recommends to Council that:-

(1)    the remaining Additional Restriction Grant is used to set up £400,000 ‘Additional Restrictions Grant Business Support Grants’ as detailed in paragraph 2.8 and 2.9 of the report; and

(2)    £100,000 be allocated to LEP Business Support Activities as detailed in paragraph 2.10 of the report.