Grants scheme opens for businesses impacted by tier 2 restriction

Additional funding to support businesses impacted by the tier two local restrictions in place in Darlington in October has been made available by the Government.

The Local Restrictions Support Grant (Open) is a package of support for businesses who were forced to operate under tighter restrictions or shorter opening hours during the period that Darlington was under tier two measures.

The grant covers businesses that fall under four sectors – hospitality, accommodation, leisure and entertainment. Eligible businesses could receive up to £1,650, depending on their rateable value.

The total funding allocation for Darlington is based on the Government's assessment of businesses occupying premises included in the four sectors. 

The borough was in tier two for 22 days, between 14 October and November 4, at which point national lockdown measures were brought in.

The Local Restrictions Support Grant (Open) grant is separate to the grant scheme that opened last week – the Local Restrictions Support Grant (Closed) – which is for those business forced to close their doors due to tighter national lockdown measures.

There will be some businesses that are eligible for both grants but they must be applied for separately.

Councillor Heather Scott, leader of Darlington Borough Council, said: “It is good news for businesses that were impacted by the tier two measures that financial support has now been made available by the Government to offset some of the lost trade.

“We are very keen to see all eligible businesses apply as soon as possible so they do not miss out on what they are due.

“The two grant schemes that are currently live have very similar names but they relate to the two separate time periods – the October tier two measures and the November national lockdown. Any business owner who thinks they are eligible for one or the other, or both, needs to fill in separate applications.”