Financial boost for businesses in West Lindsey hit hardest by coronavirus pandemic

This top-up grant utilised the Additional Restrictions Grant provided to West Lindsey District Council from the Government to support their local priority sectors.

The 211 hospitality/ tourism businesses who had already applied for the Closed Business Grant have automatically been paid the Hospitality/Tourism Grant. They were awarded between £1,000 and £10,000 and the total awarded was £672,500.

Coun Paul Howitt-Cowan, chairman of the leisure, culture, events and tourism subgroup at West Lindsey District Council, said: “It is crucial that we support our visitor economy businesses. I am pleased that the council, which is committed to economic regeneration as part of our Corporate Plan was able to provide this additional funding.

“We know that most visitors have cancelled their bookings and asked for refunds, causing severe cash-flow issues for businesses. In most cases it’s practically impossible for businesses to provide an equal substitute for the overall visitor experience.

“And while other sectors have been presented with a window of opportunity to diversify, to retain trading on a smaller scale, we know that has not been possible for the hospitality sector.”

Eligible business included hospitality settings, such as bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants, accommodation such as hotels, B&Bs, campsites, and guest houses and indoor entertainment and tourist venues.

The remaining Additional Restrictions Grant will be used for a blend of business grant support, top up of existing schemes and wider business support up to March 2022, the council continue to work up the detail of these proposals and highlight any gaps in provision to the Government.

In addition to the grants there is more support available to businesses across the district, this includes a specialist business advisor and webinars.

To find out more visit www.west-lindsey.gov.uk/businesssupport.

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