COPELAND Council has launched a new grant for businesses that were affected by Covid-19 restrictions during December.

Applications are now open for the Local Restrictions Support Grant scheme.

This support is for businesses that remained open but were severely impacted during the period of December 2 and 30, when Cumbria was placed under Tier 2 restrictions.

LRSG (open) ceases to apply as soon as Tier 4 or national restrictions are imposed, as relevant businesses will receive funding from alternative funding schemes. If Copeland moves back to Tier 2 or 3 at any time, this scheme will re-open.

The Government has advised the Council to prioritise businesses within the hospitality, hotel, B&B and leisure sectors.

Businesses outside of these categories can still apply, although those in the above named sectors will be prioritised.

The council also has a range of other grants available to support businesses during the current national lockdown.

It is currently awaiting further guidance from Government with regards to the additional top-up grants for businesses in the retail, leisure and hospitality industries, announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak on January 4. Once all necessary information is received applications will open.

Businesses can find out more information and apply for any of the grants at https://www.copeland.gov.uk/coronavirus-resources-business