THE leader of Thurrock Council has welcome intervention and financial aid from the government as it seeks to help local shops reopen as coronavirus lockdown guidance is eased.

As reported yesterday on Thurrock Nub News, following an announcement by shopping minister Simon Clarke, Thurrock has been given £155,810 to help get the borough's high streets back in business.

Mr Clarke has handed out a package worth £50 million nationally to help with the reopening, saying: "As we begin to slowly return to normality, the re-opening our high streets will be key to kick-starting our economic recovery.

"Many businesses have already introduced creative ways of trading such as contactless collection or taking orders by instant messaging and shows that they are ready for the challenges ahead."

In Thurrock the news was warmly welcomed by leader Cllr Rob Gledhill who said: "The government has done everything possible to keep residents safe and support business through this terrible pandemic. So far Thurrock businesses have received over £20m in support from Government to help stay afloat whilst they are closed.

"To hear that we will receive £155,000 grant to help our high streets open up and operate safely is really good news. We will be engaging with those who operate on our high streets to see how this money can be best spent."

"With most towns in Thurrock having a high street or shopping areas this boost is a most welcome cash injection. With the flexibility given in the guidance we can quickly engage with those who have businesses on high street to see how the money can best support them opening up safely in the very near future."