Newry, Mourne and Down (NMD) District Council has opened applications for the

Enhanced Flood Support Scheme.

Following Economy Minister Conor Murphy's announcement last week of a support package for businesses affected by recent flooding, the Council's Strategy, Policy and Resources Committee agreed at a meeting to proceed with administering the funding.

The Enhanced Flood Support Scheme will provide further support to businesses that were directly flooded following the severe weather in late October and early November. The support is in addition to the £7,500 grants and rates relief that has been provided to date to affected businesses.

-- Advertisement --

The aim of the Enhanced Flood Support Scheme grant is to offer eligible businesses up to £100,000 in additional assistance, aiding them in reopening, resuming trading, or sustaining operations. Applicants will be presented with two options to select from based on the extent of eligible costs already incurred or anticipated. Eligible businesses have the opportunity to apply for the scheme until 22 March at 12 noon.

Following flooding in the district in October/November 2023, the Council delivered the first phase of business support funding to local businesses on behalf of the Department for Economy. This scheme closed in December and issued payments of £7,500 to approximately 114 businesses.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Valerie Harte said: "Newry, Mourne and Down District Council welcomes the Department for Economy funding that will enable us to provide this further post-flooding business support. This will help us to secure the medium to long-term economic future of our city and towns. I encourage traders to visit the online portal to check eligibility and make an application for funding ahead of the 22 March deadline."