Covid-19 grant launched to help Eastbourne businesses

The Local Restriction Support Grant is now open for applications and can be accessed via the Eastbourne Borough Council.

Councillor David Tutt, leader of Eastbourne Borough Council, said, “These are very tough times for businesses, whether they remain open during lockdown or have been forced to shut. I’d like to thank our officers for getting the application system up and running so quickly and encourage business owners to apply soon.”

Businesses that the government ordered to close through the second four-week lockdown - which started November 5 - can apply for grants of up to £3,000 per month.

The criteria for the scheme is based on the rateable value of the business property, with three different levels of payments being made - one for those under £15,000, one for companies between £15,000 and £51,000, and one for those over £51,000.

All applications must be made by December 2 - when the lockdown is set to end.

The council says it is in the process of developing a scheme to support non-rateable businesses - more details will be available on the council’s website in due course.

For more information - including eligibility - go to https://www.lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk/community/covid-19/help-for-businesses/

Anyone who encounters difficulties when applying should email [email protected] with business details and their business rates account number.