Ty Temel (right) with Jay Welch, the resident DJ at Halo since the nightclub opened in 2013.
Published: December 18, 2020 | Updated: 19th December 2020
A nightclub owner who has been campaigning for financial help from BCP Council for the night time sector says he’s “elated” that close to £2m is to be made available to businesses like his.
BCP Council launched the funding scheme for businesses within the night time economy, and events, aerospace, travel and cultural industries on December 18.
As part of Stream 2 of the Additional Restrictions Support Grant scheme, the council has dedicated close to £2m in discretionary grant funding to specifically support sectors and industries that are most in need.
Grants will be available to businesses which have been mandated to close and businesses which have remained open but have been severely financially impacted by national restrictions.
The value of the grants will be £2,500, £5,000, £10,000 or £25,000.
Businesses will also need to demonstrate that they:
The application process will run from December 18 to January 15, 2021.
All applications will be reviewed and payments made after the closing date.
Cllr Philip Broadhead, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Economy at BCP Council, pictured left, said: “At the start of the latest lockdown we promised to engage with our business community and identify those areas which most needed our help and support.
“We’ve listened and now I’m really pleased to be able to launch this scheme of targeted, meaningful help to some of our key businesses.
“I’m also especially delighted that we are one of the first councils in the country to be launching such a scheme and get money out the door to those hardest hit.
“Nightclubs and event venues for instance were the first to close, yet play a vital role in adding to the vibrancy of our towns centres and stimulating demand in the hospitality and accommodation sectors.
“Across our area these sectors employ over 18,000 people and in Bournemouth alone this generates an estimated £134m annual revenue for the local economy.’
“We’re extremely pleased to offer this support, which is only possible due to funding provided to us by government.
“At what would usually be a peak trading period, we hope this dedicated funding stream will help bridge the gap between now and when these businesses can fully reopen.
“They are in need of support now more than at any previous time and we will continue to do everything we can to support them in the future.’’
Ty Temel, Owner of Halo in Bournemouth, who made a powerful video plea for council help last month, said: “Nightclubs and other entertainment venues contribute enormously to the local economy but are frequently forgotten about.
“They attract visitors, boost footfall and can be a deciding factor for student university choices.
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“In addition, these venues provide direct and indirect employment, including both suppliers and security, and breathe life into our town centres.
“Without exception, this has been the most challenging year for our industry.
“I am relieved that support is finally being made available at this critical time and will be elated to see substantial funds directed to those of us left in the shadows to date.’’
Speaking to Dorset Biz News, Ty added : “Obviously it’s all very welcome.
“While we have every faith in the new council leadership that it will be substantial and fair the devil is in the detail.”
Andy Lennox, Founder of The Wonky Table, which represents more than 500 restaurants, bars, clubs, pubs and event management businesses in the BCP and Wimborne conurbation, pictured left, said: “We’ve been working on this for months so it’s great news to see that such important parts of our economy has finally been recognised.
“It’s been a long time coming but a fantastic result and I really hope it helps the night time economy and event sectors in some small way.
“A massive result and kudos should go to new council leader, Cllr Drew Mellor, and the team, for pushing this agenda forward.”
