Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce have welcomed government support for businesses in West Dunbartonshire amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Damon Scott, Chief Executive of Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce responded positively to the most recent announcement for £2.2 billion of support for businesses by the Scottish Government.

The measures announced include a full year’s 100 per cent non-domestic rates relief for retail, hospitality and tourism, £10,000 grants for small businesses in receipt of the Small Business Bonus Scheme or Rural Relief and £25,000 grants for hospitality, leisure and retail properties with a rateable value between £18,000 and £51,000.

He said: “This was an urgent need as many businesses are already struggling to get by and the focus must now be on how quickly this can be made available and the ease with which businesses can access. Cashflow is an issue the majority of businesses face so getting grants into the bank accounts of those in need is an absolute priority to safe-guard jobs and retain the valuable future tax revenues businesses generate.”

Other measures include urging local authorities to relax planning rules to allow pubs and restaurants to operate temporarily as takeaways.

The Commerce has put together a task force for the area to help provide support for Dunbartonshire businesses and communities.

Business leaders, ‘Chamber’ experts and partners are being contacted to help ensure businesses in Dunbartonshire have access to the free information, advice and financial support available to help them through the pandemic.

Mr Scott added: ““The Chamber already encourages supporting local businesses through our “D-Biz” trade local campaign. We would call on communities to do what they can to support businesses in their area as much as they can during this difficult time whilst following government guidance relating to Covid-19.”

The Chamber will continue to develop a dedicated area of its website to provide updates and advice to business online at www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk