Several schemes in South Lakeland have been awarded a share of £448,000 to help build pride in South Lakeland.
The cash, from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, has to be used for projects which boost productivity, pay, jobs and living standards; spread opportunities and improve public services; restore a sense of community, local pride and belonging; and empower local leaders and communities.
It is being allocated by South Lakeland District Council and so far, just over £400,000 has been distributed. The remaining funding must be used by March 31.
Approved projects are:
- Inspira – £44,301 for The Key, an established employment programme currently delivered throughout Cumbria. Barrow will also contribute £78,656 and Eden £22,927 so that this scheme can continue to operate across the Westmorland & Furness area;
- Cumbria Tourism – £92,294 for a marketing and promotional campaign to support South Lakeland’s arts, cultural, heritage institutions and assets and the area’s wider cultural offer through the winter of 2022/23, increasing visitor numbers and engagement;
- Cumbria Action for Sustainability – £92,294 in South Lakeland and £9,171 in Eden to extend and expand the Cold to Cosy, Retrofit Advice Service and Solar Made Easy schemes which help households improve energy efficiency and access solar power;
- South Lakeland District Council – £95,000 to refurbish council -owned units at 16 New Shambles and 28 Finkle Street to provide affordable modern retail and office premises for lease to businesses.
Funding has also been given for feasibility studies to:
- Lake District National Park Authority – £45,000 for a feasibility study to assess the design and deliverability of improvements to Windermere railway station as part of the Windermere Gateway scheme;
- Kendal Futures – £40,000 to review Kendal’s key town centre traffic junctions to create a plan for placemaking proposals which contribute to active travel;
- Save Grange Lido – £20,000 for feasibility study of renewable energy options, including all mechanical and electrical aspects of the restoration of the lido and £15,000 for a feasibility study on pool design.
South Lakeland’s total allocation for the three-year deal up to April 2025 is £3.8 million.
