£500¸000 going to community projects across Shropshire

Following the launch of Shropshire County Council’s Community Grant Scheme back in the summer 2008, councillors have now reached a decision on who the successful applicants will be.

Some 19 community organisations from across the county were successful in receiving grants ranging from £10,000 up to £50,000 for their respective projects.

The funding pot of £500,000 was made available to support local capital projects within Shropshire that would benefit the community, such as village halls, community buildings, sports and recreations facilities and arts facilities and over 85 applications were received totalling £2.3m.

The applications went through an extensive appraisal process. Officers from district, borough and the County Council along with the Community Council of Shropshire carried out the initial appraisal of the bids to create a shortlist. Views of local councillors and Local Joint Committees were also considered.

Councillor Barbara Craig, Cabinet member for community services, said: "There has been a great response to this scheme and it has been a very difficult job to choose between the applications. It is really encouraging to see people getting involved and taking an interest in their local communities."

Councillor Peter Corston, Chair of Community Services Scrutiny Panel, added: “The community grants scheme has been very popular with local groups in Shropshire and has promoted community pride and a sense of place”.

Successful organisations included the Red House, Albrighton, Fitz Village Hall, Marton Village Hall, Craven Arms Community Garden, the Hive (Belmont Arts Centre) Shrewsbury, Ludlow Assembly Rooms and Frankton Cricket Club.

Councillor Barbara Craig and Councillor Peter Corston had the difficult and unenviable task of looking through over 80 strong applications all requesting various funds of money to support their own individual community projects.

All unsuccessful applicants have been offered help and support in identifying alternative external funding sources to deliver their schemes.

13 October 2008