Statement from Cllr Hugh Evans OBE, Leader of Denbighshire County Council and Lead Member for the Economy

“I support the Welsh Government’s announcement last week regarding the £1.4b package to provide a boost for small businesses struggling to cope with the impact of the coronavirus crisis. We understand the pressure the business sector is going through and this funding will provide some relief to them.

“However, as a Council we will be writing to the Welsh Government as a matter of urgency asking them to look at extending this scheme to cover more businesses, including those self-employed working from home or on a freelance basis, not eligible under these criteria.

“Small businesses are vital to the economy in Denbighshire, supporting our communities and providing jobs for our residents.

“The Welsh Government, through the Business Wales service and the Development Bank of Wales, are providing the support and I encourage businesses in Denbighshire to contact them to find out more information.

“Supporting businesses is important to the Council and our Economic and Business Development Team will continue to work with traders in the county going forward.”

The new Welsh Government package provides retail, leisure and hospitality businesses in Wales with a year-long business rates holiday.

A grant of £25,000 will also be offered for businesses in the same sector with a rateable value of between £12,001 and £51,000.

It also provides a £10,000 grant to all businesses eligible for Small Business Rates Relief with a rateable value of £12,000 or less.

Businesses are being asked to contact the Business Wales helpline on 03000 603000 and you can contact our Economic and Business Development Team on [email protected] or 01824 706896.