Hundreds of businesses in Allerdale are missing out on Covid-19 grants totalling nearly £10 million which they are entitled to, says an expert.
The Government has made payments of £10,000 or £25,000 available to small and medium sized businesses throughout the country via business support grants brought in because of coronavirus restrictions which forced them to close.
Allerdale Borough Council, which covers Keswick and much of the North Lakes, estimated that 3,456 local businesses would be eligible for the money, totalling £42.1 million.
But latest figures show that only 2,814 businesses in the borough have claimed a grant, with the shortfall of 642 leaving £9.3 million still unclaimed. Payouts in Allerdale so far have totalled £32.8 million, representing just 77.5 per cent of the expected allocation, meaning nearly one in four is still unclaimed.
The situation was highlighted by Ian Sloan, of Bankier Sloan chartered surveyors, who is an expert on business rates relief. He said the figures were “amazing,” adding: “Local councils have worked really hard but still have billions of pounds to hand out. Businesses in all areas should be looking to claim if the have not already done so.”
Mr Sloan added that the scheme had recently been expanded to allow claims to be made by market stall holders, guest houses and bed and breakfast establishments, all of which are relevant to Keswick.
Nationally, £9.5 billion has been paid via local council Covid-19 business support grants to 778,000 applicants. Those still wanting to apply can do so via https://www.allerdale.gov.uk/en/coronavirus/coronavirus-business-grants-claims/
