A new fund to help improve ventilation in workplaces could be a breath of fresh air for Inverclyde businesses.

Small and medium-sized enterprises can now claim back costs of up to £2,500 for any repairs or improvements made to enhance natural airflow in their premises.

The grant covers the installation of monitoring and adaptive devices, improvements to natural ventilation and other small enhancements.

The fund is open to a wide range of businesses across the likes of the leisure, hospitality, hair and beauty, and arts sectors, as well as premises such as offices, pharmacies, studios, salons and close contact services.

Grants will be administered by local authorities on behalf of the Scottish Government, which is providing the funding.

Councillor Michael McCormick, Inverclyde Council’s convener of environment and regeneration, said:

“It’s been well-documented how important it is to have good ventilation to help stop the spread of coronavirus in indoor settings.

“However, it’s not always straightforward or cost-effective for small and medium-sized businesses to make the necessary changes to improve ventilation in their premises.

“Large parts of the economy have already suffered a great deal financially because of the pandemic so hopefully this fund will support businesses to make the necessary changes to improve natural ventilation in their properties.”

Support will initially target high-risk settings where people come into close contacts, such as restaurants, bars and gyms.

The fund, worth £25 million in total, will remain open until 31 March 2022 or until the money runs out – whichever occurs first.

Businesses must satisfy the eligibility criteria to qualify for support.

For more information about the scheme, organisations that are eligible and to find out how to apply, visit www.inverclyde.gov.uk/ventilationfund or FindBusinessSupport.gov.scot.