COUNCIL bosses in Bury have received nearly £170,000 towards helping high streets across the borough recover from the pandemic.

But the total, awarded under the Reopening High Streets Safely Fund, is the lowest across Greater Manchester.

Neighbouring Bolton is getting £253,140, Trafford £210,672, Manchester £488,628, Rochdale £197,050, Oldham £210,417, Salford £230,071, Stockport £259,403, Wigan £290,046 and Tameside £200,741.

The funding is part of a £50m scheme supported by the European Regional Development Fund.

The money has been allocated to councils with the aim of spending it to boost high streets and town centres as the lockdown eases.

Councils are also able to use the cash to develop local marketing campaigns to explain the changes to the public and reassure them that their high streets and other commercial areas are safe.

High Streets Minister Simon Clarke MP said: “As we begin to slowly return to normality, the re-opening our high streets will be key to kick-starting our economic recovery.

“Many businesses have already introduced creative ways of trading such as contactless collection or taking orders by instant messaging and shows that they are ready for the challenges ahead.

“That’s why we are providing an extra £50 million for councils to support a range of safety measures that will help get these businesses back on track and ensure that people can enjoy their time visiting their local high street safely again.”