Over £700,000 has been awarded to 16 groups and organisations by Hart District Council as part of its commitment to invest in communities across the district.
The funding comes from £1 million the Council received from the government’s Shared Prosperity Fund. This is a central pillar of the Levelling Up Agenda to build pride in place and reduce inequalities.
The successful projects match the Council’s priorities to support community hubs and boost young people’s employment and engagement skills.
In total, £689,750, has been awarded to a variety of community groups, including charities, parish councils, not for profit organisations and school initiatives. The amount of grant for one successful project is still to be confirmed and will take the final amount to over £700,000.
Projects range from improving physical access to community centres/hubs and upgrading existing spaces to services supporting young people with employability skills and wellbeing.
Councillor David Neighbour, Leader of Hart District Council, said: “The work of community groups, voluntary organisations and parish councils helps to make our communities better places to live. I am delighted that we can support these much-needed projects for the residents who need them the most.
“We received many excellent bids for the funding and, unfortunately, were unable to take them all forward. However, we want to help as many people as we can and will be working with the unsuccessful groups to seek alternative funding for them so that they can extend their support services.”
In November, £14,000 was awarded to two community groups following a stakeholder engagement exercise with the bulk of the SPF funding allocated to the above 16 projects. The remaining funds will be used to support businesses and encourage more cycling and walking in the district.
The list of projects receiving the funding can be seen at www.hart.gov.uk/UKSPF