Decision details

The Chairman invited Mr Hyland to provide the Panel with a final update for the Covid Recovery Grants. Mr Hyland informed the Panel that all of the allocated £500,000 had been awarded and drew the Panel’s attention to page 17 of the report which detailed how the monies had been allocated.

Ms Burgoyne added that feedback from businesses that had received funding via the grant had been very positive. In response to a question from the Panel Ms Burgoyne agreed that it would be very good idea to put out some further press releases to promote the scheme; and the businesses and groups, that it has supported, she would pick this up with Ms Parker’s team outside the meeting.

Mr Hyland informed the Panel that there was one outstanding issue in relation to the grants. He explained that all those who received a large grant through the scheme were subject to a funding agreement that the money would be spent within six months (from receipt of the agreement), however, due to subsequent lockdowns some of those original recipients were nearing the end of the six month agreement and had asked if they could be awarded an extension. Following discussion members agreed that where appropriate extensions to grants should be allowed. They agreed that delegation be awarded to officers for them to individually assess requests and award extensions where appropriate.

RESOLVED BY THE CABINET MEMBER FOR COMMUNITY SERVICES AND CULTURE IN CONSULTATION WITH THE GRANTS AND CONCESSIONS PANEL;

That delegation be given to officers to review large Covid Recovery Grants and extend current agreements for up to 6 months, on a case by case basis.