This afternoon NABMA has received an email from government sources describing its recent updates on its work programme and press release on the fragility of markets as “incredibly helpful.”
It also adds that the Cities and Local Growth Unit is exploring how to open up town centres and shopping centres once more. Assurance is given that “we have highlighted that the need for indoor and outdoor markets should be considered within this. We will keep you updated on progress”.
NABMA has also been advised that The Business Secretary has confirmed today that Government would be providing an additional up to £617 million (additional 5% of the business support grants fund pot) to local authorities currently administering the Small Business Grants and Retail Hospitality and Leisure Grants in order for them to establish local discretionary funds. Most importantly the government source adds “These will allow local authorities to address business support needs outside the scope of the existing grants funds, including market traders not covered by the previous scheme”.
NABMA Chief Executive David Preston said:
“This is very positive news for the markets industry. It reflects the representations that NABMA has been making to government in terms of our Support Plan for Markets and we look forward to continuing these discussions further next week”.