I know how difficult it has been for businesses on our high streets across Gedling Borough over the last year, and I am determined to secure them all the help they need to recover.
That is why I am delighted that our area will receive £105,213 as part of the Conservative Government’s new Welcome Back Fund, which will help our high streets throughout Gedling re-open safely and successfully this Summer as restrictions lift.
This will ensure that our high streets have the support they need as we move into recovery, and build back better from the pandemic.
In addition to the Welcome Back Fund, the Conservative Government has also supported Gedling’s high street businesses throughout the pandemic with targeted tax cuts, business rates relief and grants as part of an economic package worth £407 billion this year and next; enabled eateries and pubs to keep serving customers as takeaways during lockdown, and is making it easier for disused buildings in town centres to be repurposed to end the scourge of ugly buildings that drive away footfall.
Commenting, Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said:
“As we move to the next stage on the roadmap out of lockdown we are all looking forward to being reunited with friends and family outdoors and making a safe and happy return to our favourite shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants.
“Our Welcome Back Fund gives every city, town and high street support to prepare for a great summer. This funding will help councils and businesses to welcome shoppers, diners and tourists back safely.
“As soon as the roadmap allows, we need to get behind our local businesses and enjoy all that this country has to offer and that we’ve been missing so much.
“I’m allowing every pub in the country to erect a marquee in their garden for the whole summer as a one-off power to support our locals.”
