District Council sets up multimillion-pound lifeline to help Sevenoaks businesses hit by the coronavirus

More than £20 million is being distributed by Sevenoaks District Council in the next two weeks to support local businesses affected by coronavirus.

The scheme sees eligible businesses receive a cash grant of either £10,000 or £25,000, with the criteria set nationally by the Government focussing help on those in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors.

S statement from the council claims that this vital lifeline will benefit thousands across the District and forms part of a raft of measures, including the awarding of nearly £20 million of business rates relief.

Cllr Matthew Dickins, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance and Investment, said: “We are incredibly lucky to enjoy a strong, diverse and enterprising business community in the Sevenoaks District. But this is a time of great challenge and anxiety for them, their staff and families.

“So we have been working seven days a week getting in touch with all our qualifying traders, axing business rates, and issuing these grants.”

A handful of eligible business have yet to confirm their bank details and the Council is urging them to get in touch as soon as possible to ensure they benefit from the package of help on offer.