Boost for omicron-hit hospitality and leisure businesses as council rolls out grant scheme
Test Valley Borough Council has rolled out a new government grant scheme to help the leisure and hospitality sector, which was hit hard by the fast-spreading omicron variant at the end of last year.
Pubs and restaurants faced a tidal wave of cancellations in the run up to Christmas due to spiralling covid cases, in what would normally be their busiest period.
The government announced that they would provide a package of support to those affected, and hospitality, leisure and accommodation businesses are now able to claim a one-off Omicron Hospitality and Leisure Grant of up to £6,000.
Businesses must apply by the government’s deadline of 18 March 2022 to ensure that the council can process their claim in time.
To find out more and to apply, visit www.testvalley.gov.uk/businessgrant
Finance portfolio holder, councillor Maureen Flood, said: “These businesses were already reeling from previous lockdowns, so the impact of spiralling omicron cases on trade during the busy festive period, was a devastating blow.
“I would urge every eligible business to apply. And if you are not sure if you’re eligible, then please visit our website to check. Our teams are on hand to process applications as quickly as possible.”
The council will also be releasing information about an Additional Restrictions Grant in the coming weeks, which will provide further assistance to affected businesses.