Applications are now open for the council’s largest ever Greenwich Neighbourhood Growth Fund which puts contributions from developers back into the heart of the community.
There is a total of £1million for local groups to bid for grants of between £2,500 and £35,000 to make improvements to their neighbourhoods. Residents will have the chance to vote for the projects proposed in their area.
The fund uses money the council has collected from developers through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) to ensure that local people benefit from new housing development and commercial space created in the borough.
Previously the fund has enabled the refurbishment of school playgrounds and tennis courts as well as the improvement of walking and cycling infrastructure.
Cllr Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, said: “Development should mean more than new houses and flats, so we’re making sure that we put developers’ cash to good use in a way that benefits the whole borough.
“That sentiment is at the heart of the Greenwich Neighbourhood Growth Fund which helps to pay for vital projects across that are aimed at improving community facilities and infrastructure. I know so many local groups will benefit greatly just as more than 150 have since the fund launched in 2018.”
Cllr Majid Rahman, Cabinet Member for Planning, Estate Renewal and Development, said: “Pro development, pro investment, and pro giving back to residents – that is what this council is about, and this fund clearly demonstrates that.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the array of bids that come forward and then through the public vote giving our residents the chance to help shape improvements to their areas. This is a perfect example of how the public can help influence how money is spent which from a community perspective is important in people feeling as though their voice is listened to.”
Since Greenwich Neighbourhood Growth Fund was launched, over £2.5million has been awarded to 157 projects across the borough. These have included:
replacing windows at a play centre
creating a sensory garden for a hospice
running a digital inclusion programme
park and school playground improvements across the borough
walking and cycling infrastructure
a community crèche.
Any local organisations who want to bid for funding can apply here. The closing deadline for bids is midnight on Monday 1 December. All the bids will be assessed before residents are given the chance to vote on shortlisted projects.
