As the second lockdown looms Hitchin businesses that are forced to close from Thursday for month will be entitled to a new grant up to £3,000 a month, the government has announced.

Earlier this year, grants of between £10,000 and £25,000 were handed to north Herts companies affected by the lockdown – including those who kept trading throughout the first few months of the pandemic.

Now, we gear up to enter into a second lockdown further financial support has been offered.

Companies and businesses forced to shut can claim up to £3,000 per month under the Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG).

Eligible businesses can apply for the following:

For properties with a rateable value of £15,000 or under, grants to be £1,334 per month – or £667 per two weeks.

For properties with a rateable value of between £15,000-£51,000 grants to be £2,000 per month, or £1,000 per two weeks.

For properties with a rateable value of £51,000 or over grants to be £3,000 per month, or £1,500 per two weeks.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak said: "Over the past eight months of this crisis we have helped millions of people to continue to provide for their families.

"But now – along with many other countries around the world – we face a tough winter ahead.

"I have always said that we will do whatever it takes as the situation evolves.

"Now, as restrictions get tougher, we are taking steps to provide further financial support to protect jobs and businesses. These changes will provide a vital safety net for people across the UK".

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