You are here:

Latest news

Update On Grant Payments to Businesses

Published on Thursday, 21st January 2021

Statement by the Leader of Maldon District Council on the payment of business grants.

Cllr Wendy Stamp, Leader of Maldon District Council, said, “We are continuing to prioritise the payment of Grants to our businesses and  understand the importance of getting payments to those who are experiencing an unprecedented financial challenge.

“Our staff have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic, however the delay between the schemes being announced by Government and guidance being issued to Local Authorities has resulted in delays which were beyond our control.

“I am pleased to say that following receipt of the latest guidance on Friday our team have worked over the weekend to assess outstanding grant applications and in the next few days, over £3 million of payments will be made to businesses who have previously made a valid application, covering the period up to 15 February when the Tier level and restrictions are due to be reviewed by Government.

“We have revised our grant policy and this week have introduced a one-off grant of £400 for licenced taxi drivers who have seen a significant decrease in passenger numbers over the last year.  A form which applicants can use to apply is available on our website. 

“We have received 30 applications for the ‘Christmas Support for Wet Led pubs’ scheme and encourage any pub who derives their income primarily from the sale of drink, rather than food, and who have not yet applied, to do so as soon as possible as applications for this scheme will close at the end of January.

“In terms of the Business adaptation Grant, the team are assessing these on a daily basis.  These grants of up to £1500, are to support businesses to carry out adjustments to premises to enable them to continue to operate, improve their business and ensure the health and safety of staff and customers.  It could help to purchase outdoor seating, shelter and lighting to enable outdoor trading or to provide protective screens and barriers to keep customers and staff safe. We would encourage any business that might benefit from adaptations when they reopen and who has yet to apply to make an application.

“We recognise the severe difficulties that local businesses are facing and continue to prioritise this work to best support them.

“Our small team have worked as quickly as possible to process all of the grants that have become available due to the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, and I am pleased at the progress they have made in what has been a challenging situation.  I am sorry that some businesses have had to wait for their payment and sincerely appreciate the patience and cooperation shown by businesses so far.

“We are continually reviewing our policy and processes to ensure that as much money is paid out as quickly as possible, and we are asking businesses to continue to check back on our website and social media for updates and if possible, avoid telephoning us once claims have been submitted.”