As lockdown measures continue to be lifted and our lives return to a more normal situation, we hope the engines of our local and national economy can really start to motor.

These have been extremely difficult times with the real sense of fear due to the medical emergency combined with economic fears and real concerns about the survival of businesses and jobs.

While there are still hurdles to overcome, I and my Braintree District Council colleagues know how vital the Government support grants have been for the survival of many businesses, and your local council has assessed and processed these applications and offered other support as quickly and diligently as possible, with grants totalling £28,590,000 paid to 2,447 local businesses.

Braintree District Council has an excellent record of business engagement and support over recent years and the link between local businesses and education establishments has proved to be vital in helping the local economy.

This close rapport with business has only been enhanced during the Covid-19 crisis and will be even more important as we emerge from the economic slumber.

As cabinet member for corporate transformation, I am delighted that we are progressing at pace with construction on Horizon 120 – the innovative, future-proof, employment site adjacent to the A131.

As the economy recovers, we will be attracting new businesses to our area, with the promise of new and higher paid jobs for local residents.

Interest from companies remains high, this is really encouraging for employment prospects in the district.

In the meantime, the second phase of the discretionary grant scheme is being launched.

Please see www.braintree.gov.uk/coronavirus for more information or contact ecodev@braintree.gov.uk for advice to support your business.

The challenges to the local economy remain, but we can face them with real positivity and safe in the knowledge that your local council will be playing its part to the full.

Cllr John Mckee

Cabinet Member for Corporate Transformation

Braintree Council