East Devon District Council has launched a new round of grant funding for Honiton businesses affected by national restrictions.

Round two of the Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG2) is for businesses, with fixed costs from any sector, that have been severely financially affected by the latest lockdown.

It is not for businesses able to claim the Local Restrictions Support Grant (Closed) Addendum.

Businesses eligible for ARG2:

* If not paying business rates, must have been legally required to close between the 5 January and 15 February 2021

* If not legally required to close, must demonstrate a 30 per cent drop in turnover and prove fixed costs of at least £250 per month

East Devon District Council has streamlined business grant applications for ARG2 click here for details.

Businesses which previously received an ARG1 payment for national restrictions from 5 November to 2 December will automatically receive an access code to use when completing the short form.

The ARG2 is due to close to applications on 5pm on Thursday, 11 March.

Councillor Paul Hayward, East Devon District Council's Portfolio Holder for Economy and Assets, said: "As we await details of how the current national restrictions will be eased, I would urge anyone whose business has been significantly affected by the national restrictions 5 January to 15 February to check their eligibility for the Additional Restrictions Grant and submit an application accordingly.

"This funding is provided to try and alleviate some of the financial pressure on businesses where their trade has been adversely impacted for this period and yet still have fixed costs to meet or which were required to close and don't pay business rates.

"Unlike for other grant schemes, this support is not limited to specific sectors. If you feel that you meet the criteria please don't delay - apply as soon as you can."

Businesses are asked to be patient while grant applications are processed, due to the huge surge in demand.

Please check the frequently asked questions, as we are unable to receive queries by telephone for this grant.

To check eligibility and find out more click here.

It is expected that the ARG will be extended to cover the national lockdown from 15 February onwards, after the government announces its roadmap to easing lockdown restrictions.

As soon as dates are confirmed, further access codes will be sent to all successful ARG applicants.