Funding pot to help Alnwick retailers recoup reopening costs to be considered

Shops, cafes, hairdressers and other traders have had to put safety measures such as perspex screens in place at their premises to protect customers and staff.

However, the idea of a community funding pot was discussed at a meeting of Alnwick Town Council.

Coun Gordon Castle, member for Alnwick on Northumberland County Council, said: “I have had discussions about this with a certain major landowner, the idea being that we have a shared community pot where we might be able to assist independent businesses who have met unexpected expenses as they struggle back into operation.

"It could possibly help pay for things that they wouldn’t normally be expected to have, like screens in their premises, like supporting equipment, like sanitisers.

"Unfortunately the kind of money I have access to – and I have some left – is designed for capital projects so whether or not I can get this used for something like this is a moot point at the moment.

"The town council might want to consider administering a pot of this kind and looking for contributions, possibly from the county or others. I think it should be considered.

“We are not talking about big money, maybe a one-off to applicants, with an easy process.”

Coun Martin Swinbank had initiated the discussion by asking if there was more the council could be doing to support the local economy.

Coun Sue Allcroft asked if a community fund would be available retrospectively.

"I think we would have to make it retrospective but it’s for discussion,” said Coun Castle. “We can’t make a decision yet.”

Coun Martin Harrington was also positive about the number of visitors now arriving in the town.

"The town is doing very well,” he said. “It’s been very busy and now we need to get back to normal with sensible social distancing.”

Mayor Lynda Wearn added: “The first week the shops were open they were clicking their heels and wishing the tourists were back but they are now reporting good sales.”

The community fund idea will be put on the next full council agenda.

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