Northamptonshire's councils distribute £126m in businesses grants during pandemic

Northamptonshire's seven borough and district councils have distributed more than £126m in grants to over 11,180 businesses during the coronavirus pandemic.

During the lockdown, the central Government announced three grant schemes designed to keep businesses afloat after they were ordered to close.

These included the Small Business Grant Fund, the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Fund and the Discretionary Fund.

In a joint statement yesterday (July 23), Northamptonshire's seven district and borough council leaders announced they had so far seen £126m given out to businesses.

The statement reads: “We know that the coronavirus pandemic has made this a very difficult time for our businesses and we’re pleased that we have been able to support many of them get through these unprecedented times.

“We thank businesses owners for their patience and council staff across the county for their diligence and dedication in making sure local businesses get the support they need.

“The Government’s programme of economic support has helped many businesses get through the lockdown and in the aftermath of this pandemic, we need to support them more than ever before to ensure that they continue to prosper.

“We pay tribute to the massive efforts being made by businesses across the county doing everything possible to make their premises Covid-secure to keep their staff and customers safe.

“Now we are urging businesses in the hospitality and tourism sectors to register for the 'Eat Out to Help Out' scheme facilitating discounted dining for customers every Monday to Wednesday throughout August and we encourage customers to behave responsibly and respect the social-distancing rules.

“We are all in this together and we all have our part to play in stopping the spread of the virus and supporting local businesses to recover and prosper.”