Issue - meetings

This report provides an update on the Additional Restrictions Grant element of the Economic Development Recovery Plan.

Recommendation: to note the report.

The next phase of the Additional Restrictions Grant was now commencing.  There would be a focus on business recovery from Covid-19 and strengthening operations.  This would be done by providing training, improving the use of technology such as developing businesses’ online presence, and providing grants for equipment.

There was discussion about the processes for approving grant applications and monitoring the use of any money that had been provided.  It was reported that whilst it was not possible to monitor every business’s use of grants due to staff capacity, spot checks would be taking place and business cases would be reviewed before any grant was awarded.  Case studies would also be identified, with a view to promoting the success of the scheme.  The committee requested that businesses be invited to participate in a survey after approximately six months had passed.

Officers were thanked for supporting businesses and providing a comprehensive package of support.

The report was noted.