To help hospitality businesses recover from the impact of the COVID pandemic, Chester BID is offering grants of up to £5,000 to support businesses looking to create or enhance an Alfresco seating area outside of their business premises.
- Create a new Alfresco seating area – Businesses that don’t currently have an Alfresco seating area but meet the criteria to have one.
- Expand an existing Alfresco seating area – Businesses that have an Alfresco seating area with the capacity for it to be expanded (approval from CW&C required prior to the grant application being approved – see below).
- Improve an existing Alfresco seating area – Businesses that have an Alfresco seating area that would be improved by installing shelter, heating, or better-quality equipment.
Chester BID has secured funding from the governments Containment Outbreak Management Fund (COMF) via Cheshire West and Chester Council.How much can I apply for?
The maximum that can be applied for is £5,000. Proof of purchase/order must be supplied before any funds can be paid (i.e., supplier invoice or order confirmation)
What can the grant be used for?
The grant can be used to purchase equipment to safely create or enhance an Alfresco seating area, this could include: Tables, chairs, free standing canopies, gazebo’s, electric/infrared heating etc. All equipment must be purchased new from an established retailer able to provide business credentials upon request (e.g., VAT number, company registration number etc.). Equipment must be of a good quality and meet the necessary safety standards (e.g., wind loading, risk assessments etc.).
What can’t the grant be used for?
Grants cannot be used for equipment that requires planning or conservation consent i.e., awnings or heaters that need to be attached to a building would not qualify. For safety and environmental reasons no gas powered, or flame heaters would be considered.
Who can apply?
Any hospitality business registered to pay Business Rates and located within the Chester BID area (Watergate St, Upper Bridge St, Northgate St, Eastgate Street, Foregate St, Frodsham St, Love St, St John St, St Werburgh St, Pepper St) that meets the criteria for an Alfresco licence is eligible to apply.
Do I need an Alfresco licence?
To be eligible for a grant you must qualify for an Alfresco licence from Cheshire West & Chester Council. If you do not hold a current Alfresco licence, you can still apply however you must also apply for an Alfresco licence (proof of application is required). An expanse of area will also require an additional approval.
More information about Alfresco licences and how to apply can be found here: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/transport-and-roads/highways/permits-and-applications/alfresco-licence.aspx
How will it be decided which businesses receive a grant?
A simple scoring mechanism will be applied to decide who is awarded a grant. Funds are limited so businesses establishing a new alfresco seating area will be prioritised. Applicants will be asked to explain to what extent a new or extended Alfresco seating area would help grow or sustain your business.
How and when can I apply?
To apply please complete the short application form here: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/KYRFY5R
Applications open on Friday 17th December and close on Sunday 23rd January. Successful applicants will be notified via email no later than 4th February 2022.
To access the grant successful applicants must provide proof of purchase to Chester BID no later than Friday 25th March 2022.
Please factor in this deadline should you also need to apply for an Alfresco licence from the council.
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