MORE than half of York's businesses are receiving coronavirus financial help from the city's local authority, a council report says.

The council's economic portfolio holder Andrew Waller said the city should recover well from the pandemic.

He was speaking after reading an officers' report stating the council is providing grant support to more than 3,500 companies, which the council estimates is more than half of the city's businesses.

Cllr Waller said: “Throughout the pandemic, our focus has been on ensuring that we pay grants and funding as quickly as possible. We know that delivering this support efficiently helps protect jobs and support the diverse range of grassroots and independent businesses that make York so special.

“Whilst we must not be complacent, we are in a good position to bounce back from the effects of the pandemic. We will be ready for the challenges the future holds for our city."

Funding is provided through the 2020 microgrant scheme and the additional restrictions grant and one of the council's focuses has been on discretionary grants to small and micro businesses.

According to the council report, York's jobless increase has been three times lower than those of Bradford, Hull and Birmingham.

“As we approach the lifting of lockdown restrictions, we are developing solid plans to support the safe reopening of the city," said Cllr Waller. "Many businesses will be facing challenges over the coming months and we want to reassure them that our teams are working hard to make sure they have the tools they need to recover and thrive.

“We will continue to work with partners across the city, from the Federation of Small Businesses, Chamber of Commerce, Institute of Directors, York BID, to Indie York and Make It York, to understand the challenges facing businesses in York and offer direct and efficient support. The spirit of collaboration remains strong, and will continue to be central to our approach.”