A new £50,000 scheme has been launched to help Carlisle’s communities come back together post lockdown and stimulate economic activity in the district.
Carlisle City Council has allocated the cash to support parish councils, community centres and constituted urban community groups to provide community activities and support the local economy.
This fund is designed to allow parishes and local communities to put in place additional measures to create and promote a safe environment for local trade and business, particularly in high streets, support the visitor economy and to bring the community together in a safe way.
The fund will contribute 80 per cent of the total costs of agreed projects, and parish council or urban communities contribute 20 per cent of the total cost from their own reserves/fundraising activities or other grants.
The fund is available to parish councils, community centres in unparished areas and constituted urban community groups within Carlisle district.
To qualify, projects should:
- Promote the district as a vibrant place in which to live, work and visit;
- Increase economic activity;
- Celebrate the civic history and heritage of the district;
- Engage with people from the local community; and/or
- Benefit the health and wellbeing of the community.
Applicants will be required to complete an application form that will be assessed by a grant panel consisting of council officers, council member representative and a member of the Carlisle Parish Councils Association.
The grant fund will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis and will be paid on receipt of a completion from and evidence of expenditure.
The grant will only be available for projects that will be completed and claimed against this financial year.
Leader of Carlisle City Council, John Mallinson, said: “Following several lockdowns and a very challenging few years, it is important that we enable our communities to come together, safely.
“I hope that this fund will stimulate some creative thinking, and that some great projects come forward.
“Project applications should consider benefits to the community they serve, how they can stimulate the economy and how they can support the health and wellbeing of residents and visitors.”
The window for applications is open until Monday August 9.
Details on the fund and how to apply can be found at www.carlisle.gov.uk
