Over the 2025-26 financial year, Braintree District Council completed 30 key projects, delivering improvements for residents, businesses and communities.
The projects reflect the council's commitment to strengthening communities, supporting economic growth and improving quality of life, with investment focused on housing, health, community assets, business support and the environment.
A key achievement was a £326,000 investment in cost of living support, funding initiatives such as community supermarkets and food banks, as well as smart tablets, school uniforms and weekly meals for residents facing financial hardship. In addition, £61,600 in councillor grants were awarded to 87 local projects, supporting initiatives ranging from community hall and sports club improvements to recycling and community planting schemes.
Supporting health and wellbeing remained an important priority, with £10,000 in grants funding counselling services, mental health projects and initiatives aimed at reducing health inequalities. The appointment of Freedom Leisure to manage the district’s leisure centres has also led to improved services and an enhanced customer experience for visitors. Throughout the year, dementia drop-in sessions provided support to people affected by dementia, while Section 106 funding from new developments enabled the creation of three new 3G football pitches in Witham and Braintree.
The council invested £375,100 in modernising key community assets, including Witham Public Hall, Witham Leisure Centre and Braintree Town Hall, while a further £445,800 in government grants was awarded to businesses, community groups and local projects, supporting economic growth, communities and skills development.
The council continued to make progress in addressing local housing needs, delivering 233 affordable homes and helping 134 households at risk of homelessness secure accommodation. A council-led scheme implemented with partners also helped 200 households reduce their energy consumption and lower bills, while neighbourhood plans were adopted in Earls Colne and Steeple Bumpstead, giving local communities a greater say in shaping future development in their areas.
Supporting economic growth and skills development remained another key focus, with more than 800 people attending job fairs, 435 businesses receiving direct support, and 140 businesses taking part in briefings covering topics such as sales, social media and cybersecurity. Over 390 students also benefited from sustainability and STEM-focused careers events.
Cllr Tom Cunningham, Leader of Braintree District Council, said: “Over the last financial year, we have continued to invest in the things that matter most to our residents, from health and wellbeing and community facilities to cost of living support, business growth and opportunities for young people. These achievements demonstrate the positive impact that can be achieved by working closely with our communities and partners. While there is always more to do, I am proud of the progress we have made and the difference these projects are making to people's lives across the district."
These outcomes are just some of the highlights from a wider programme of work that continues to support residents, communities and the environment.