Final call for £350,000 grant scheme for Wolverhampton traders hit by controversial roadworks
Businesses hit by a controversial city centre pedestrianisation scheme have just hours left to apply for support funding.
Traders on and around Victoria Street in Wolverhampton saw profits tumble as a 17-month council-led roadworks project reduced footfall to a trickle.
In April Wolverhampton Council brought in a relaunch grant to support traders – and the deadline for applications expires today.
Traders have already spoken of their anger at how the grant has been handled, accusing the council of "harassment and bullying" and of peddling "misinformation" over deadlines.
A total pot of £350,000 has been allocated for grants through the scheme, which opened on April 3 and was extended on May 25 amid complaints from traders. Businesses can claim up to £5,000 each, and so far 40 traders have applied.
The Labour-run authority's deputy leader and economy chief, Councillor Steve Simkins, said: "We are supporting the traders in ways other councils wouldn’t and it is entirely down to them if they wish to apply for this grant.
"Our sole motivation is to support businesses to take this opportunity as it would be a shame for them to miss out – and I would urge any eligible traders who have yet to apply for the grant to act fast. Our officers are on hand to provide one-to-one support with the application process for any traders that need it.
