BUSINESSES in Barrow are being urged to apply for new grants that will provide some welcome financial relief during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

Leader of the borough council Cllr Ann Thomson said the money was there 'to help businesses get through another difficult period this year'.

The Local Restrictions Support Grant (Open) will serve as a one-off financial boost to businesses in Barrow impacted by the 'tier 2' lockdown restrictions placed upon Barrow Borough in October.

The grants, aimed at hospitality businesses where business rates apply as well as leisure businesses, will be distributed by Barrow Borough Council according to nationally-set eligibility criteria.

The Local Restrictions Support Grant (Closed) is for businesses that were mandated to close because of the national lockdown.

This scheme is aimed at businesses in the non-essential retail, leisure, personal care, sports facilities and hospitality sectors to cover the period of November 5 to December 2.

Cllr Thomson urged businesses to apply for the money 'as soon as possible'.

“These schemes are now open and we need businesses to check their eligibility and get their applications in,” she said.

“Barrow was placed in 'tier 2' in October because cases of Coronavirus were escalating rapidly and people’s lives were at risk.

“Since then, the national lockdown was announced until December 2.

“Grants are now available for businesses across our area affected by both sets of restrictions and I would urge everyone eligible to apply as soon as possible.”

Cllr Thomson said: “This money is here to help businesses get through another difficult period this year.

“Please check to see if you might be eligible and apply so we can arrange a transfer to your account.”

Visit barrowbc.gov.uk/coronavirus/local-restrictions-support-grant/ for more information.

To access the grants, businesses will need to download the application form, fill it in and email it to LRSG@barrowbc.gov.uk.