Hundreds of pubs across County Durham which have been affected by local and national coronavirus restrictions are being encouraged to apply for the latest Government support grant.
‘Wet-led pubs’, or those which predominantly serve alcohol rather than food, are eligible for a one-off grant of £1,000 to help make up for a loss of trade over what would have been a traditionally busy Christmas period.
Durham County Council will be contacting businesses that may be eligible for funding to highlight the support available. So far, it has already identified over 400 pubs across the county which it will be making contact with initially.
The council is also considering an enhancement to the Government scheme in order to support all eligible pubs and clubs across the county.
Businesses have until 31 January 2021 to apply and will be asked to provide supporting evidence in line with Government guidance.
The guidance also states that nightclubs, hotels, snack bars, guesthouses, sporting and music venues, theatres, cinemas and casinos should be excluded from the grant.
Pubs and clubs can apply for the grants by completing the form at durham.gov.uk/covid19businessgrants.
Applications will be processed from Monday, January 4, and will be paid as soon as possible and no later than February 28, 2021.
Cllr Carl Marshall, Cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “So many businesses across the county are missing out on much needed income over the festive period so I am pleased that this grant is being made available.
“However, it does not go far enough. That is why we are seeking to enhance the scheme to provide support to all pubs and bars affected during this period and safeguard the jobs of thousands of people in the county.
“Our staff will be working quickly and efficiently to process these grants from January 4, and I would encourage any publican who thinks they are eligible to apply.
“The support is vital not just for individual companies but for the county’s economy as these businesses play a key role in ensuring the resilience of our towns and villages.”
Meanwhile, the council has also issued the first Tier 3 support payments to thousands of businesses impacted by the coronavirus restrictions. Last week, 2,007 grants were paid with a combined value of more than £1.3m.
The council is now working on the next round of Tier 3 payments to eligible businesses.
As well as the latest national grants, the council and other North East organisations are offering a range of support programmes for businesses.
To find out more, visit businessdurham.co.uk/covid-19-recovery/covid-recovery-for-businesses.
Advice and information about support for tourism businesses is available at visitcountydurham.org/covid-19.
