NORTHUMBERLAND County Council’s new leader has moved to reassure businesses that freshly-introduced Covid-safety measures would support their futures.

In a video message, Coun. Glen Sanderson emphasised that Northumberland was not in local lockdown - but was instead taking steps which would protect everyone, including the business sector, from longer term impacts of coronavirus.

Coun. Sanderson said: “As a council, we are determined to continue to do everything that we can to help and support businesses.

“We have acted quickly, with our neighbouring authorities across the region, to introduce some sensible measures which will protect the economy for the longer term, while allowing as near normal trading as possible.

“Restaurants and pubs can remain open, tourist businesses can continue to welcome guests, and shops and hair and beauty salons can continue to trade – so long as they follow all of the current guidance.

“Our Northumberland Business Hub brings together an experienced and knowledgeable team of people who can give advice, guidance and support during this time, as well as signposting businesses to a number of support programmes.”

While infection rates in Northumberland were generally lower than in some areas of the North-East, they had risen significantly in parts of the county, and the council pointed out that people travel frequently in and out of the area – for work, for education and to enjoy the county's many beauty spots.

Coun. Sanderson, however, stressed that Northumberland was still open for business and that the council would continue to promote the county, urging people to enjoy a visit, while following local measures aimed at preventing the spread of Covid-19.

The Northumberland Business Hub brings together a range of advice, guidance and support, including a number of dedicated support programmes available to Northumberland businesses.

These cover a range of areas including fully funded, digital support, such as website and app development, and consultancy support to help businesses impacted by Covid-19.

More information for businesses is available online.

Visit, www.northumberland.gov.uk/businesshub