BUSINESSES in West Berkshire that have been forced to close during the second coronavirus lockdown can now apply for grants of up to £3,000.

West Berkshire Council will be distributing the Local Restrictions Support Grants (LRSG) and it is urging businesses to submit their applications as soon as possible.

Businesses with a property that has a rateable value of £15,000 or under can apply for a grant of £1,334.

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If they have a property with a rateable value of between £15,000 and £51,000, they are eligible for a £2,000 grant.

While businesses with a property that has a rateable value of £51,000 or more can apply for a £3,000 grant.

The government, which has provided the money, hopes it will support businesses that cannot remain open during the four-week lockdown that is due to end on December 2.

Councillor Ross Mackinnon, executive member for finance, said: “When the country went into lockdown back in March, the £29 million of grants and £37.4 million business rate relief we administered were a vital source of source of support for local businesses.

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“I know that these further grants will be very welcome at such a difficult time.

“I would encourage any business who is eligible for the grants to apply via our website so that we can get to work on their application as soon as possible.”

You can find out more about the grants on the West Berkshire Council website.