BUSINESSES in Northwich are being reminded to take advantage of the support available as they recover from the pandemic.

Cheshire West and Chester Council launched its Restart Grant scheme at Easter and there us still time for businesses across the borough to apply, even if they have already reopened.

Under the scheme, businesses could be entitled to thousands of pounds worth of government grant funding to help them get back up and running following lockdown.

The grants are for businesses that were forced to close during national lockdown and those that remained open. It is a one-off payment being distributed by the council.

There are two types of grant available. Strand One is for non-essential businesses which could receive a grant of up to £6,000 based on their rateable value.

Strand Two is for hospitality, accommodation, leisure, personal care and gyms or sport, who could receive a grant of up to £18,000 based on their rateable value.

For those businesses that do not have a rateable value but fall into the business sectors in Strand One and Strand Two, support is available and businesses can apply under the Additional Restrictions Grant scheme.

Since last October, the council has made more than 22,0000 grant payments totalling more than £40 million.

Councillor Carol Gahan, cabinet member for finance said: “Paying the grants as quickly as we can has been a priority since the start of the pandemic.

“I’m very proud to say the council has consistently been one of the fastest authorities in the country for making the payments, we have also concentrated on making the process as simple as possible for businesses.

“To make the application process as quick as possible please make sure all sections of the form are completed and only one application is made, this will avoid additional questions and having to identify duplicate applications.

“Our business community has faced incredible pressures during the past year. It’s essential we keep infections low through still being careful and having regular tests.

“Our borough has made great strides in reducing the number of Covid infections and this continues to be our top priority. The reopening of our borough must be done cautiously and safely, and the Restart Grant Scheme will help local businesses to do that.”

You can find out more about the support available for businesses and apply for a Business Support Grant at: cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/news-and-views/incidents/coronavirus-covid-19/business-information/businesses-and-employees.aspx