Nottinghamshire is topping the charts for distributing a vital stream of COVID-19 central government grants to local businesses, according to a new report.
All eight local authorities in the County responsible for reaching out with the Additional Restrictions Grants (ARG) funding since last October appeared in the top 10% of Councils distributing the support nationally.
It follows a report by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).
Small and medium size businesses in Notts have now received over £12.5 million of funding compared with less than £4m or just 2.27% of grants distributed to London boroughs, in data up to January 17 this year.
It follows the work of revenues and other teams at Rushcliffe Borough Council, Ashfield District Council, Bassetlaw District Council, Broxtowe Borough Council, Gedling Borough Council, Mansfield District Council, Newark and Sherwood District Council and Nottingham City Council.
Local authorities are able to use the Additional Restrictions Grant until the end of financial year 2021/2022 following Tier 3 restrictions and closures last year.
Leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council Cllr Simon Robinson said: “The figures highlight the excellent performance of so many Nottinghamshire councils and is testament to their hard work to reach out with these lifeline grants to thousands of businesses.
“So many have been closed or affected by the pandemic for long periods, it’s heartening here in the County we are leading the way in ensuring those who are eligible have received this funding.
“We understand around the country authorities’ strategies for grants reaching businesses are different and in line with what they feel works best.
“At Rushcliffe, our position from the outset was clear to ensure no time was wasted and the payments being distributed were a priority.
“We recognise businesses need support now as many non-essential retailers prepare to open their doors again safely on April 12 in line with the Prime Minister’s roadmap.
“We know businesses are facing such stark pressures and we’re committed to helping them wherever we can.”
Last month the Events Industry Alliance similarly reported £1.3 billion of the £1.6 billion allocated for ARG payments nationally since October has yet to be paid.
Its research suggested some councils across the UK are distributing the funding in tranches lasting until the deadline next March.
