That the Criteria for the Local Restrictions Support Grant (Open) and Additional Restrictions Grant set out at Appendix 1 to this Record of Decision be approved.

The Local Authority is required to establish a discretionary policy to provide financial support to the local economy as a result of the impacts of Covid-19.  The policy has been developed taking into account the “encouragement” from the Government within the scheme guidance to focus these grants on the businesses most affected by the Covid-19 restrictions, and following consultation with other Councils so as to ensure a consistency within the region.

Background information about the grants and specific guidance;

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/local-restrictions-support-grants-lrsg-and-additional-restrictions-grant-arg-guidance-for-local-authorities

d-additional-restrictions-grant-arg-guidance-for-local-authorities

This decision will come into force immediately.

As part of the response to national and local lockdowns due to Covid-19, the Government has provided limited funding to provide financial support to the local economy.

The eligibility criteria for grants from these funds is discretionary and the Local Authority is required to establish a discretionary policy.

Based on the experience of the previous scheme it is possible that there may be further changes to this scheme as and when the Government provide confirmation of funding and reporting requirements.

None