Community projects linked to local shopping parades across Ipswich Borough can now apply for funding to improve facilities for the local community.
As part of the £25m Towns Deal for Ipswich, the funding utilises government funding to improve the town’s economy.
An expression of interest process is open for funding that will focus on community projects across the Borough which will provide improved community facilities for people visiting a local shopping parade.
Community organisations with a strong geographical link to shopping parades that can evidence how the funding will benefit those using the parade will be eligible for this funding. Up to £20,000 per project is available for one-off capital costs – for projects with significant impact more money could be available.
Facilities delivering community; education and training; health and wellbeing; sports, leisure, and recreation; and environmental or sustainability activities can be supported in the eligible shopping parades.
To find out if your local shopping parade is eligible and to submit an expression of interest or for further information, contact: town.deal@ipswich.gov.uk
The closing date for expressions of interest is Thursday 15 June 2023.
Following a short assessment process, projects which best meet best the needs of the local area will be asked to develop full proposals.
Councillor Bryony Rudkin, Deputy Leader of Ipswich Borough Council and Portfolio Holder for Strategy and Transformation says:
“I’m delighted that the next stage of this Towns Fund project is underway and we’re looking to hearing from community groups that would like to improve their facilities on and around our local shopping parades.
The Towns Fund provides much needed investment to shopping parades which provide important services to our local communities, so we hope as many community projects can benefit from the funding as possible.”
Tom Hunt, Member of Parliament for Ipswich says:
“I am very excited that the Government funded Shopping Parades project, as part of the Town Deal, is making significant progress. I have been speaking with many businesses and residents surrounding the local shopping parades about what improvements they want to see in our local area and I know that this funding will transform many of these into more attractive hubs for our community.
It is important that through this we are able to support local businesses and rejuvenate some pride into our local shopping parades. I look forward to continuing to work closely with businesses and residents closely as we push this funding into its next stage.”
Photo credit – Ipswich Borough Council
