THURROCK Council has issued a reminder to local firms that they may be eligible for cash support available to all businesses which were open on 4 November but, by law, have had to close or cease their main business during the current lockdown.

Under the Government's new Local Restrictions Support Grant each eligible property will receive a one-off payment of:

£1,334 if the rateable value is £15,000 or under

£3,000 if the rateable value is more than £51,000

Cllr Shane Hebb, Cabinet Member for Finance, said: "Thurrock Council distributed more than £22m of government business grants during the first lockdown and I urge local businesses which has had to close to take advantage of this new grant by applying now.

"Government funding has provided many businesses a vital financial lifelines throughout the coronavirus epidemic and we want to make sure no local businesses misses out during this lockdown.

"If your business is eligible and has had to close because of the current restrictions it is important you go online today and apply for this funding through the council's website."

Any business owner who thinks they are eligible should visit thurrock.gov.uk/business-rates/restrictions-support-grants to find out more and complete the simple online form.