Don't delay asking for new cash aid, city businesses urged

Chancellor Rishi SunakChancellor Rishi Sunak
Chancellor Rishi Sunak
Preston business chiefs have urged the city's hospitality sector to apply for new cash help without delay.

They were responding to Chancellor Rishi Sunak's announcement of a new £4.6bn support package.

A Preston City Centre Business Improvement District spokesman said: "We are delighted to see that the Chancellor has announced further, and critical, support for businesses enduring a third lockdown period. It is absolutely necessary and urgently required.

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"We have provided details to city centre buisnesses via our internal portals, and would now urge them to be ready to submit their application once able to.

A bustling Preston in normal timesA bustling Preston in normal times
A bustling Preston in normal times

"We encourage the local authority to get the process up and running and the grants awarded to those who meet the criteria, without delay."

A major campaign group is still very concerned for the UK's pubs forced to shut once again.

Campaign for Real Ale Chairman Nik Antona said: "It is clear now more than ever that the Government must introduce a new, long-term and sector-specific financial support package to help these businesses survive the coming months.

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"While one-off grant support is welcome, it is nowhere near enough to cover the haemorrhaging costs for pubs and breweries that don’t see any end in sight.

"The Government must recognise that local pubs are a force for good and play an important role in bringing people together, tackling loneliness and social isolation, and supporting their local communities.

"When this nightmare is over, they will be vital to the nation’s healing process – so long as they are still standing.

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