Three local Councils have been given an extra £14 million by the Government to help B&NES, Bristol City and South Gloucestershire Councils cover coronavirus-related costs and ensure they have the resources they need to keep providing vital services over the winter.

The three Councils have now received nearly £100 million in extra Government support since the start of the pandemic – but B&NES Council has received the smaller share at £18 million compared to £56 million for Bristol and £25 million for South Gloucestershire. B&NES Council was reportedly losing around £91,000 a day in parking and heritage income during lockdown. At the time, B&NES Council Leader Dine Romero said that the pandemic had highlighted the Council’s reliance on the visitor economy.

The Covid funding is not ring-fenced, with the Government keen to enable local leaders to determine how to spend the cash to best protect public health, vulnerable people and the running of vital services in their area. This includes £72 million in four tranches of Covid funding and £27 million in other grants and support.

Tim Bowles, West of England Regional Mayor, said: “Our Councils have been on the front line in our battle against Covid-19, supporting people who are shielding, helping us navigate the new rules on social distancing and still delivering the essential, everyday services.

“This funding proves the Government is sticking to its word and making sure Councils have the resources they need to keep supporting families right across the West of England.

“I’ve been calling on ministers to make sure our Councils aren’t left out of pocket because of the steps they have needed to take in this unprecedented time, and I hope every Council leader in the region welcomes this additional funding to recognise the unique pressures they are under.”

Councils across England will have £1 billion in extra funding this winter. This includes £900 million in this fourth tranche of Covid funding and £100 million to support Council-run leisure centres.

In total, the Government has provided Councils with £6.4 billion of additional funding.