To seek approval to adopt the Additional Restrictions Grant – Discretionary Grants Scheme Phase 1 policy
Decision type: Key
Decision status: For Determination
Wards affected: None Specific;
Notice of proposed decision first published: 24/11/2020
Reason for urgency:
On 5 November 2020, when new national restrictions were imposed by Government, all Local Authorities triggered the start of the Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG). Under the ARG, Local Authorities are able to support local businesses through discretionary grant schemes as well as through other wider support measures. The focus of any support must be on businesses significantly impacted by any restrictions put in place to control the spread of Covid-19. In order to achieve the Government's objective a Localised policy needs to be put in place to support those businesses at the earliest opportunity. This item is therefore deemed as urgent.
Decision due: 2 Dec 2020 by Executive
Lead member: Deputy Leader of the Council and Executive Member for Children's Services - Prue Bray
Lead director: Deputy Chief Executive - Graham Ebers
Department: Housing, Income and Assesments
Contact: Andrew Kupusarevic Email: andrew.kupusarevic@wokingham.gov.uk Tel: 0118 974 6803.
Reference Number: WBC1170
Reason For Consideration: On 31st October 2020, the Government announced the introduction of additional support for Local Authorities under national and Local Covid Alert Level (LCAL) 3 restrictions. The scheme is called the Additional Restrictions Grant and is administered by business rate billing authorities in England. They encourage Local Authorities to develop discretionary grant schemes to help those businesses which, while not legally forced to close are nonetheless severely impacted by the restrictions put in place to control the spread of Covid-19.