Community projects across the West Lindsey district have benefited from a staggering £618,000 that was match-funded to in just one year, according to the latest figures.
Local Conservatives have been delighted to see that voluntary and community groups are making the most of Conservative-led West Lindsey District Council's many grants schemes.
The Leader of the Council, Cllr. Jeff Summers, said he was very impressed by the way community groups are bringing in other external funding to support projects. He said:
“We have provided more than £217,000 to support community groups across the district this year because we recognise how important funding is to deliver community projects.
“However, with a finite level of resource within the councils budget it is essential we all work collaboratively to draw down regional and national funding to help develop and enhance our communities. Our constitution clearly states our objective, ‘to create a district where people want to live, work and play’.
“Collectively we have been very successful this year and I congratulate those groups and communities for the positive performance. Much of this good work has been volunteer led, helping to provide key services to local people.”
The council operates three grant schemes which enables us to cover a wide range of community needs from a new village hall to a notice board.
Each West Lindsey district councillor has access to the Councillor Initiative Fund to be used to assist with the smaller aspects of community funding. More than £28,000 of funding has been awarded by the council to the Market Rasen area. This does not include external funding.
Those benefitting from support includes:
- Market Rasen Scouts - £4,000 to carry out major repairs to its headquarters
- Middle Rasen Village Hall - £6,000 to refurbish the ladies toilets
- Market Rasen Cricket and Association Football Club - £8,000 to carry out interior development of a bar and kitchen
- District Councillors also awarded £7,759 to various projects in the area.
On top of this a further £15,301 has been awarded to community projects which will benefit the whole of West Lindsey. A further £30,000 has also been invested across the district rolling out a new life-saving defibrillator scheme. Cllr Summers added:
“We have been operating these funding schemes for several years and due to the community buy in we have assisted in the investment of millions of pounds in community projects which would not have got off the ground without the councils assistance.
“If you have a community project and can’t see how to fund it. Please speak to your local ward councillor or contact an officer at West Lindsey to discuss the detail.”
To find out more about the council’s grant schemes or to apply visit: www.west-lindsey.gov.uk/my-services/my-community/grants-and-funding/