London,
16
April
2021
|
11:25
Europe/London

Camden businesses welcome back shoppers as restrictions are eased

A variety of businesses on Camden’s local high streets, centres and street markets are now safely welcoming back customers in line with government guidelines.

A Camden council spokesperson said:

“The Council is supporting local business with additional funding available to help with reopening. The second round of Additional Restrictions Grants will prioritise businesses that have not been eligible or received any grant funding through the national lockdowns, with one-off payments up to £12,000 available.

“The Restart Grant of up to £18,000 will support non-essential retail, hospitality, leisure and personal care businesses to reopen this month. To check eligibility and to apply visit: camden.gov.uk/business-support

“We are also assisting outdoor hospitality venues to reopen by making it easier for them to apply to use any suitable, available outdoor space by with a pavement license.

“From 12 April we have been looking to revamp the existing streateries in phases and are seeking to develop a number of new streatery sites, subject to road safety reviews and a full consultation.

The council has been helping local businesses to be ready to welcome customers back through its business toolkit, which contains information including the latest guidance for reopening safely, outdoor dining and financial support.

To help residents enjoy the increased number of shops, street markets and venues opening, we have also developed more cycle routes and areas to allow you to enjoy walking and cycling more safely to our high streets.

A Camden council spokesperson continued:

“We are working with local businesses, including outdoor hospitality venues and our street markets, to welcome customers back safely.

“Whilst shopping locally, we hope that everyone can enjoy what’s new, rediscover their old favourites and remain safe by keeping up to date with government guidance. This means wearing a face covering, washing your hands or using hand sanitiser and keeping a safe distance from anyone not in your household or support bubble.

To further assist both businesses and shoppers the council’s Frontline Presence teams are continuing to be out and about in Camden offering support and advice.”

Whilst restrictions remain, shoppers can also access their favourite independent shops through the council’s Love your Camden, shop local directory.

 

  • The Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) will reopen for a second round of applications on Thursday April 15 and the deadline to apply is Friday April 30.
  • For businesses and staff returning to work at sites across Camden, and for all Camden residents, there are free Lateral Flow Tests available. The tests can be taken by people without symptoms and provide results in 45 minutes.