Levelling up the Rural Economy
More than £3million of investment in projects to support communities and businesses is planned by the borough council, and applications for funding will open soon.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Rural England Prosperity Fund will provide targeted funding over the next two years to support projects that build pride in place, develop skills, enhance employment opportunities, increase productivity or improve community services.
Cllr Graham Middleton, the borough council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for business, culture and heritage, said:
“West Norfolk is a wonderful borough that is full of opportunities – and I’m delighted Cabinet approved the priorities for how this funding will be allocated to help our people, places and businesses to fulfil their potential [...] this presents a chance for people with good ideas to get funding for their schemes.”
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund will invest in aspirational projects that have the potential to make a positive change around the borough. Applications will open at the end of February for capital and/or revenue funding of £500-£10,000 in three main areas:
- Innovation in the arts, cultural, heritage and creative sector
- Enhancements to the character and vibrancy of town centres
- Sustainable development of the borough’s year-round visitor offer
The fund will accept applications from the public and private sector and from businesses and organisations of any size.
Rural England Prosperity Funding will provide capital investment for new and existing rural businesses to develop new products and facilities, or to support new and improved community infrastructure that will benefit the wider local economy. Funding approval is awaited from government but it is anticipated this will open for applications in the spring, supporting both rural businesses and rural communities.
In addition to the above grant, the Council has agreed to allocate part of the available funding to develop new initiatives and continue existing and highly valuable activities and services; working with our partners to support west Norfolk residents and businesses. The total allocation of funds is just over £3.3million and the borough council is the lead local authority for delivering the investment on behalf of HM Government and is responsible for administering the scheme. Funding priorities have been identified through consultation and engagement with stakeholders, businesses and communities.
