The Government has announced £5 billion in Restart Grants for high street shops and hospitality firms.

The news ensures that the hardest-hit businesses will have the support they need through the next stage of recovery.

Southport MP Damien Moore said: “As we begin to move into the next phase of our recovery, and a gradual return to normality, the reopening of our high streets will be key to kick-starting our economic recovery.

“That is why the Government is delivering further support to the thousands of businesses that have been hit hardest by the pandemic through a new £5 billion grant scheme – ensuring firms can reopen and get going again as restrictions ease and people return to their high streets.

“As lockdown restrictions ease and people are able to enjoy breaks away, Southport is very well placed to take advantage of the expected staycation boom in the UK this year. It is vital that we support our vital retail and hospitality sector to allow our local businesses to reopen safely and with confidence.”

Under the scheme, non-essential retail businesses will receive up to £6,000 per premise to help them reopen and start trading safely.

Hospitality, accommodation, leisure, personal care and gym businesses in England – which will open later under the roadmap or will be more impacted by restrictions when they do open – will get up to £18,000 per premise.

There is now light at the end of the tunnel and the support announced this week, combined with the Government’s record-breaking vaccine programme, will allow high-street shops to reopen their doors with optimism.

Over 20 million people in the UK have now received a Covid-19 vaccine.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak will outline further details of the next steps in the Government’s response to the pandemic at the Budget on Wednesday 3 March.

image borrowed from Champion Newspapers

Is our Damien on a retainer @ Q Local's Southport news page?