PUB and restaurant owners in Renfrewshire have said the Scottish Government’s latest lockdown compensation offer may not be enough to save them from having to close their doors permanently.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has announced that monthly grants of £2,000 or £3,000 would be available for businesses that have been forced to shut since October 9.

The move followed a controversial decision to extend the hospitality sector lockdown until November 2.

However, Renfrewshire owners say the latest closure order has put their struggling businesses under even more financial pressure, while the new promise of government cash does not go far enough.

Kenny Blair, managing director of Buzzworks, which owns The Coach House bar and restaurant in Bridge of Weir, told The Gazette: “The money is welcome but no-one is jumping for joy.

“The funding from the government does not adequately cover the cost of closing your business and paying staff. Businesses like ours cannot afford to keep burning through our cash reserves.

“The current grant system is not fit for purpose. Two or three thousand pounds a week is a drop in the ocean for a business our size.”

Leo Pierotti, owner of the Piccolo Mondo and Luna Rossa restaurants in Renfrew, insists he should at least be allowed to sell alcohol with takeaway meals in a bid to earn extra income and save jobs.

He added: “There is still no clarity about when we will be able to fully open and under what conditions.

“If the First Minister is going to keep us closed, then at least come up with something better in the way of compensation.

“We need at least £7,500 to £10,000 a week just to survive.

“Going forward, it looks bleak, particularly with Christmas coming up.”

Indrit Mataj, who owns the Trattoria Roma, in Johnstone, also fears for the future of his business.

He is angry that cafes are allowed to open while his restaurant is shut.

“Takings at our pizzeria are down 50 per cent,” he said. “Meanwhile, we have a cafeteria near us which is mobbed every day, yet we are being told we must remain closed. It doesn’t make sense.

“I feel as though the Scottish Government have almost killed us with this latest lockdown.”

Economy Secretary Fiona Hyslop said the Scottish Government is “determined” to support businesses as the coronavirus crisis continues.

She added: “We will continue to work with local authorities to ensure grants are made available quickly and efficiently.”