Twickenham MP Vince Cable and the chief executive of Richmond Chamber of Commerce have backed a scheme to invest £250,000 to try and help residents through the recession.

Last month Richmond Council’s cabinet agreed to spend £244,000 on an action plan after the executive was told the numbers claiming jobseekers’ allowance in the borough had doubled in the past six months.

The authority was given the cash by the Government as part of Local Authority Business Growth Incentive scheme (LAGBI) and as it was not yet earmarked, it was agreed it should be spent to help residents.

Ideas included looking at the planning process to assist new developments or change of use and helping boost tourism and leisure.

Dr Cable and Nick Taimitarha, chief executive at the chamber of commerce, have welcomed the move.

Dr Cable said: “This is the worst recession we have seen in a hundred years. It is therefore vital local authorities do what they can to help struggling businesses.

“Richmond Council has taken the lead by appointing a business champion and the council should be commended for these new proposals.

“These initiatives will do a lot to help alleviate some of the pressure businesses are under.”

Mr Taimitarha said the chamber of commerce supported the initiatives.

He added: “Marketing the borough as a tourist destination will certainly benefit businesses in the hospitality and retail sectors.”