Applications invited for community projects

Communities across South Kesteven are about to benefit from almost £100,000 of new funding from a new £1m pot of cash to directly support local initiatives over the next two years.

They are receiving the first allocations from the South Kesteven Prosperity Fund, set up with the district's £3.9m share of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

A diverse range of community initiatives has already been confirmed by SKDC’s Prosperity Fund Board, with dozens of bids currently being assessed. There is still time to apply.

Cllr Ashley Baxter, SKDC's new Cabinet Member for Finance and Economic Development, said: “This fund is part of our allocation from the Government to meet the need for community projects anywhere across the 365 square miles of our district and we urge groups to apply for a share right away.

“There are some specific criteria and bids for funding can be made for projects for building improvements; green space and outdoor improvements; culture, arts, and heritage initiatives.

“Community groups will need to show project plans, receipts and quotations for work to qualify.

“We are pleased to see the wide range of initiatives already in the pipeline which will undoubtedly enrich the local area for everyone.”

The Government has chosen SKDC to administer the fund, and the Council monitors and evaluates projects to ensure the best value for money.

All applications to the South Kesteven Prosperity Fund go through the Council's cross-party board, which meets on a regular basis.

Details of how to apply can be found online: www.southkesteven. gov.uk/SPFgrants Projects should provide a public benefit to the residents of South Kesteven, which could be targeted at a specific demographic or the wider community.

There are no fixed deadlines for applications, which are considered on a rolling basis until the annual allocation of funding in this area is committed. There is no upper or lower limit for bids.

Applications are open to town councils, parish councils, parish meetings, and community groups within South Kesteven.