COVID-19 Business Support Continuing

All eligible businesses who have applied for the government’s coronavirus support grants by Monday 13 April have now been paid by Ashford Borough Council.

The grants have been processed as quickly as possible by the council’s Revenues and Benefits team as we appreciate how vital they are to the survival of some local businesses.

Bahar Atilgan from Salata, in Bank Street, said: “The idea of closing our business before it even actually settled down worried us a lot – we have been waiting the whole year for spring to arrive, which would have been our peak season.

“ABC’s regeneration team, Loveashford, stood with us through the whole process and informed us right away about grants; what to expect and when. Within the Loveashford community, we were able to have conversations about town, our businesses, inform each other on daily happenings and support each other. This all gave us an extra confidence to shut down as soon as possible to protect ourselves and our community.

“On 3 April we received our grant, as it is promised. Which gave us a relief to not worry about ongoing bills and rent for a couple of months. We are looking forward to serving when the restrictions over. Thanks to Ashford Borough Council for their immense work.”

Leader of the Council, Cllr Gerry Clarkson, said: “We have now paid out more than £18.5m in grants to local businesses through this scheme. This means around 1,550 businesses have been supported at a time when they need our help the most. We are proud to be able to make these payments so quickly and I am grateful to the officers whose hard work has made this possible.”

If you own an eligible business and have yet to complete your application form, visit the council website at www.ashford.gov.uk/business/business-rates/coronavirus-business-rates-grants/.

Regular updates on the council’s support for businesses and eligibility for grants is available on the council’s website at www.ashford.gov.uk/coronavirus and click Coronavirus advice for business. You can also sign up to receive our regular emails with the latest advice and support for businesses on this page.

The Kent and Medway Growth Hub have set up a phone line at 03333 602300, for business support advice, 8.30am - 5pm Monday to Friday. Webchat is also available on all the relevant business pages on the Ashford Borough Council website.