BUSINESSES in Swindon that have been affected by national Covid-19 restrictions can now apply for the next set of government grants.

More than £30 million has already been distributed to companies around the town by Swindon Borough Council.on behalf of the government.

Applications for the Local Restrictions Support Grant and the Additional Restrictions Grant are now open.

Eligible businesses can receive grant payments for the period between November 5 to December 2.

The scheme is aimed at supporting businesses which have been told to close since Bonfire Night and have live business rates accounts with the council, even if rate relief has been awarded.

Unlike the previous scheme, there is no upper limit for business rates values.

Businesses who can apply include those providing direct, in-person services on their premises, including those which have found alternative, safe methods of trading such as new takeaway services from a restaurant.

Levels of funding for these grants are set by the government and will be allocated to eligible applicants based on the business property’s rateable value. Applications are open until 5pm tomorrow.

Any small businesses that have lost income since November 4 but are not eligible for this scheme or do not have a live business rates account with the council can apply for the Additional Restrictions Grant instead.

The ARG scheme is open for applications until 5pm on Friday December 11.

Full guidance, criteria and application forms for both schemes can be found on the council’s website at: www.swindon.gov.uk/covidbusiness

Grant payments will be made as quickly as possible once applications have been approved.

Borough council leader Coun David Renard said: “We know these are challenging times for many businesses, but our officers are working incredibly hard to get this money into eligible firms’ bank accounts as soon as possible.

“I would urge any business which is facing financial challenges as a result of the pandemic to see if you might be eligible for one of these grants.”