SHEFFIELD CITY COUNCIL has requested more support to be given to the city’s nightlife industry.
They have asked a Parliamentary Inquiry for an extension to the furlough scheme and relief for business rates and VAT.
Councillor Mazher Iqbal, who is the City Council’s Cabinet Member for Business and Investment said: “The Council is calling on the Government to support these businesses who have been hardest hit by the pandemic so that when the time is right, they can come back fighting and provide the vibrant nightlife we are all so looking forward to experiencing again.”
Sheffield has over a thousand businesses from pubs and nightclubs to cinemas and bowling alleys contributing to the night-time economy.
2020 was the first time in ten years that the Tramlines festival was cancelled and is one of the many annual events that usually take place in Sheffield and have had to be cancelled due to the year-long pandemic.
Councilor Iqbal also said: “We have iconic venues and events in Sheffield that are known worldwide and are an integral part of our appeal as a visitor destination. That there is something for everyone is central to Sheffield’s uniqueness, and we simply cannot afford to lose these much-loved and valuable assets and their vital contribution to the local economy.”
The City Council also requested a national campaign to restore confidence in local industries once restrictions are removed.They have also partnered up with UNIGHT, a non-profit organisation which represents the night-time economy in Sheffield.
Chair of the organisation Nick Simmonite said: “So many businesses I work with are on their knees, because of the pandemic. Many will not survive.
“I hope that Government will listen to those working in the industry, who know and love it and who have worked hard to protect both business and our customers, throughout this unprecedented time. With support, we will bounce back.
“We are ready to provide the services and experiences that we absolutely know our people are going to want right now.”