The government are set to issue grants under a new scheme to support businesses in re-opening safely in April; called the Restart Grant scheme.

Under the Restart Grant scheme eligible businesses in the non-essential retail sector may be entitled to a one-off cash grant of up to £6,000 from their local council; and eligible businesses in the hospitality, accommodation, leisure, personal care and gym sectors may be entitled to a one-off cash grant of up to £18,000 from their local council.

Businesses may be eligible if they are registered for business rates, in one of the above named sectors and if they are trading on 01 April 2021.

As with the Local Restrictions Support grant, the amounts payable are based on the rateable value of the business.

Local councils will use their discretion to determine whether businesses meet the eligibility criteria for this grant scheme. The grants are available from 01 April 2021, but can be applied for in advance.

The complete government guidance on the Restart Grant scheme is at the following link https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/971363/restart-grant-la-guidance.pdf

For businesses who are not eligible for the Restart Grant scheme such as those that do not have business premises registered for rates, but that have still suffered due to Covid-19; Local authorities in England will also be given an extra £425m to distribute under schemes like the Additional Restrictions grant.

If you have any queries about the above then please do not hesitate to get in touch; or to apply please see your local council website.