A fresh package of support is being rolled out by Ashford Borough Council to help its town centre businesses bounce back from the pandemic.

Offered across Ashford and Tenterden to those within the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors, it aims to "develop and capitalise on opportunities Covid-19 has presented".

The targeted programme has been launched in partnership with Loveashford and will run for an initial period of 18 months to offer tailored support to a select number of eligible businesses across both town centres on a limited basis.

It will be rolled out by consultancy agency CPG. It will offer free one-to-one support, enabling local businesses to access expert advice from specialist consultants. Grant funding will also be available for businesses who qualify, to help with their digital ambitions.

Businesses can register their interest through an online application form.

Cllr Paul Clokie, portfolio holder for regeneration and corporate property said: “We are proud of the work we do to support the businesses across Ashford borough, and we hope that this will mean many of them will be able to access advice and help to grow. The last year has brought unprecedented challenges, but it has also brought new opportunities and this partnership with CPG will capitalise on those.”

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