The Head of Regeneration and
Economic Development introduced the report and explained how the
scheme would be delivered for businesses adversely affected by the
pandemic. The deadline for awarding the grants was 31 March 2022,
and following further allocations since publication of the report,
the funding remaining was £240,000. Letters of thanks were
appended to the report from businesses who had benefited from the
Maidstone Business Boost.
In response to questions, the
Head of Regeneration and Economic Development explained that
businesses were required to re-complete paperwork for the second
round of funding due to strengthened checks put in place, and would also capture any change in
circumstances since the initial bid for funding was
submitted.
RESOLVED: That
1.
The progress on the delivery of the Additional
Restrictions Grant Scheme be noted;
2.
The Government’s additional funding
allocation, announced in December 2021, to support businesses
severely impacted by the Omicron variant, be noted; and
3.
The team be thanked for their work throughout the
pandemic to effectively support local businesses through their
efficient administration of the grant schemes.