Winchester City Council calls for bids to community infrastructure fund
Organisations can now bid for a share of funds to support community infrastructure projects across the Winchester district.
Winchester City Council is inviting applications of between £10,000 and £200,000 to support physical improvements to local areas such as playgrounds, green spaces, and sports facilities.
A £1million fund has been established by the council to help community projects, with grants for 12 schemes approved in 2019 through the first round of bidding. The second round of the initiative is now open to applications. The money comes from the council’s Community Infrastructure Levy using income raised from new developments to pay for infrastructure which will benefit residents.
Winchester City Council, Cabinet Member for Built Environment and Wellbeing, Cllr Jackie Porter said:
“We want this money to go to projects that will make a real difference to residents across Winchester district. This innovative fund is designed to support initiatives that will improve quality of life in our communities. Local organisations and groups can now apply.”
In the first round, £600,000 of money was awarded to 12 projects, including:
- £200,000 for Abbotts Barton and Hyde Scout Group which is now in a position to begin plans for its new scout and community hall.
- Littleton and Harestock Parish Council, which received £18,000 to help fund a local Parkour sports facility.
- Colden Common Parish Church, which was granted £17,000 towards improving its community facilities within a local church.
Claire Sclater, Chair of 6th Winchester (Abbotts Barton & Hyde) Scout Group said:
"£200,000 is a significant sum of money which will provide a vital boost to our Barn project and we are delighted to have been awarded this funding. A new scout and community hall in Abbotts Barton will provide a valuable facility for the whole community - young, old and everyone in between - to enjoy for generations to come."
Bids can be made by local organisations such as parish councils, and community groups, for the entire cost of a scheme, or for part-funding. The deadline for applications is 31st March 2020. Applications will be then be assessed with the final decision on successful bids made by the council’s Cabinet in the summer.
For more information on how to apply, visit: www.winchester.gov.uk/planning/community-infrastructure-levy-cil/apply-for-cil