Businesses which applied for financial support from the government still haven’t received it yet.
Some business owners haven’t heard back from Trafford Council to acknowledge their applications for the grants, which form part of the Government’s £330 billion support package for the economy to help firms through the coronavirus outbreak.
Some businesses applied weeks ago and had not heard anything back since, but Trafford Council said it is working as fast as it can to get through the hundreds of applications it has received.
They said money started being distributed last week.
Business owners and workers took to Twitter to call for clarity this week, with many stating businesses are struggling now and they need help immediately.
The Stamford Pub, in Bowdon, said: “Hi Trafford, any time frame on this yet? Since we applied no confirmation of receipt of application or timeframe of payment.
“During very worrying times for hospitality it would be nice to get some feedback and support?”
Alexander Jethwa, who is part of business networks in Altrincham, said: “When are you going to start paying them out? Two business networks I’m part of have not received anything from Trafford Council yet.”
Twitter user Val Stratton added: “[The grants are] good news but how long will it take for the small businesses to access these funds, as many are struggling now.”
Coun Tom Ross, executive member for finance, replied on Twitter: “Officers are working through the applications as quick as they possibly can. The first of the grant money started being issued last week and it is a priority to get the money to businesses ASAP.
“If you’ve not heard by Wednesday could you email tom.ross@trafford.gov.uk and I’ll check for progress- however we are conscious how much businesses need this money ASAP so are doing as much as possible to get it out quickly- thank you.”
A spokesman for Trafford Council said: “Trafford Council can confirm that Small Business Rates Relief grants started to go out to businesses across the borough on April 1, 2020. The retail, hospitality and leisure grant payments are scheduled to commence this week. Both these dates are highlighted on our webpage.
“Our teams are working hard through the coronavirus lockdown to ensure these grants are issued to businesses in a timely manner and to facilitate this we have redeployed extra team members to work on the verification of payments.
“We have received a software update from our Business Rates System suppliers, which we are testing today, and we expect this to go live tomorrow which will speed up the payment process.
“We understand the impact the current circumstances are having on businesses across Trafford and are making payments as soon as is possible.”
