Applications for a share of £10 million available to volunteer groups and projects which address the impact of development on residents in Lewisham are open.
A funding package approved by the mayor and cabinet commits nearly £3 million of neighbourhood community infrastructure levy (NCIL), which is charged on new developments, to community infrastructure projects.
Another £7 million will be given to voluntary and community groups over the next three years through the council’s main grants programme.
Cllr Kim Powell, Cabinet Member for Business and Community Wealth Building, said: “By involving our local communities in decisions around NCIL funding, residents will get a real say on the investment they want to see in their local area and the community projects that will benefit them most.
“It is really important that local residents see the benefits of new developments for their communities and that’s exactly what this funding will help deliver.”
Each of Lewisham’s 18 wards will receive their own pot of NCIL funding, based on the amount of new development in the area and level of deprivation.
The council claims it is the first local authority to allocate funding on this basis, ensuring a fair distribution across the borough whilst tackling inequality.
Residents in each ward have already identified priorities for their area through a consultation process involving over 13,000 people.
They have until November 21 to submit their ideas and proposals for projects.
The council’s main grants programme was also renewed for 2022-25, following consultation with voluntary and community groups.
More than £7 million in grant funding will be given out over the next three years, with local groups set to receive £2.36 million each year to support their work.
Grants of up to £50,000 per year are available for organisations that can support the programme’s key priorities, while rants of £10,000 per year are available for organisations who can demonstrate commitment to working in partnership with the council.
The deadline for both applications is 11.59pm on November 18, 2021.
A new team of community fundraisers will also be funded through the programme to assist local organisations.
Organisations who want to host a community fundraiser post will need to complete an expression of interest form.
The deadline for applications is 11.59pm on October 16, 2021.
To find out more about submitting an application, click here
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