Wet-led pub grants open for applications

High Peak pubs that predominantly serve alcohol can still apply for the Christmas support grant payment to compensate them for the impact of closure over the festive period due to Covid restrictions.

One-off payments of £1,000 are available to pubs in tiers 2 and 3 and High Peak Borough Council is now inviting applications from eligible businesses.

To qualify, pubs must meet the following criteria set by the government:

• Be liable for business rates AND
• Operate as a wet-led pub business that derives less than 50% of its income from sales of food
• Under normal circumstances be described as: open the public; free to enter other than when occasional entertainment is provided; allowing drinking without requiring food to be consumed; and permitting drinks to be purchased at the bar

Councillor Anthony Mckeown, Leader of the Council, said: “The restrictions have been particularly difficult for pub businesses - especially those that don’t serve food – and they will feel the impact even more during the festive season when they can generally rely on bustling trade.

“That’s why these grant payments are so important. To meet requirements pubs have to apply for this grant separately and the application process for High Peak pubs to apply for this help is now available. I encourage those businesses that meet the criteria to complete the online form on our website at their earliest convenience.”

Final applications must be received by 31 January.

To find out more and apply, go to https://www.highpeak.gov.uk/Coronavirus-Business-Financial-Support