More than £6 million in crisis grants has been paid out by Moray Council to businesses struggling to cope with the effects of the coronavirus lockdown.
The authority has received nearly 1,000 applications for the fund from firms predominantly in the tourism, hospitality and leisure industries.
Most of the payments have now been approved, with money transferred, but about 400 require further investigation before cash can be handed over.
None of the applications have been rejected so far.
The council has drafted in more staff to cope with the backlog of applications to process with £6.695 million already approved for companies.
The focus of the authority’s revenues and benefits team will shortly be switching to business rates and council tax bills – with those who are in financial difficulties urged to contact the council to discuss assistance.
Council leader Graham Leadbitter said: “We all understand these are uniquely challenging times for everyone, in business or not, and our staff stand by ready to help.
“While many small businesses in Moray enjoy 100% rates relief there is no such relief from the payment of council tax.
“However, we understand the difficulties some may have in meeting payments during the lockdown and the team are authorised to agree a re-scheduling of the tax and business rates bills to minimise any hardship.”
Advisors at Moray Council can be contacted by e-mailing revenues@moray.gov.uk, with information also available on the council’s website at www.moray.gov.uk.
