Over the last three years, Braintree District Council has awarded 45 organisations £739,425 from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity and Rural England Prosperity Fund.
The grants were awarded to businesses, parish councils, charities and community groups in a bid to future-proof vital community assets, reduce carbon emissions, connect communities and enhance resilience in rural areas.
The funding has been used to:
- create or improve community gardens and green spaces
- improve community facilities and make energy saving efficiencies
- help rural businesses expand products and services
Some of the projects making a difference include:
Witham Town Football and Social Club
Solar panels installed at the Simarco Stadium is lowering running costs and carbon emissions, supporting a venue that hosts diverse community activities.
Steeple Bumpstead Community Garden
This community led initative is helping the environment, increasing biodiversity and bringing the local community together. The garden includes seating and is just one of 23 projects which have come to fruition over the last three years.
Tuffon Hall Vineyard, Sible Hedingham
A new glamping pod complements the venue’s existing accommodation and is ideal for those wanting a unique get away in the North Essex countryside.
Borley Village Hall
A makeover with fresh paint and new furniture has transformed this historic venue into a welcoming and functional space for individuals, families, community groups and businesses.
Birdbrook Community House
The installation of 54 insulated windows has reduced energy bills and carbon emissions, ensuring this key community hub remains sustainable.
45 projects have been supported over the period thanks to the allocation of Government funds.
Cllr Graham Butland, Leader of Braintree District Council, said: “These initiatives are creating lasting improvements and making a tangible difference to our communities and businesses. From making community buildings more energy efficient to supporting local businesses in expanding their services, these projects are creating a more sustainable and resilient district. These investments not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also align with our economic growth and climate change ambitions and priorities.”
In addition to these projects, the Council also supported mental health initiatives, holiday clubs, cost-of-living programmes, educational, heritage and cultural activities using funds from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
Notes to editors:
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.
The Rural England Prosperity Fund provides £110 million of funding for investment within rural communities across England. The fund is a rural top-up to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund which is a central pillar of the UK Government’s agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025.
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