A funding pot of at least £90,000 is available for business and community projects to revitalise high streets across South Cambridgeshire.
The government funding has been allocated to support rural areas by enhancing the appearance and character of towns and villages to help boost the local economy and improve overall quality of life for residents.
Cllr Peter McDonald, Lead Cabinet Member for Economic Development for South Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “We’re delighted to announce another year of offering this funding, which continues to support the innovation, resilience and community spirit that define South Cambridgeshire. These grants are a fantastic opportunity to breathe new life into our local shopping areas. By supporting projects that boost footfall and encourage residents to shop locally, we’re not only strengthening our community spirit but also laying the groundwork for long-term economic growth. I encourage local groups and businesses to come forward with bold, creative ideas that will help our high streets thrive.”
High street improvements implemented thanks to last year’s grant include a war memorial garden in Cambourne, disabled access to a Café in Over, upgrading to doubled glazed windows at a hairdressing shop in Histon, improvements to the village entrance and communal areas in Longstanton and improving the front of a community pub in Great Chishill.
Paul Bristow, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, said: “High streets right across our region are full of heritage, culture and opportunity; and they are part of what makes Cambridgeshire the best place to live and work. This funding is part of the Combined Authority’s commitment to back local businesses and communities. By working with partners likes South Cambridgeshire District Council, we are promoting rejuvenation, economic growth and getting residents back to our high streets.”
This grant is aimed at projects that revitalise local shopping areas, increase footfall, encourage residents to shop locally and stimulate economic growth. There is a total of £90,000 in the funding pot. Grants of between £5,000 and £20,000 per project will be available to local businesses, charities, community groups and Parish Councils.
The grant money comes from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund with Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) acting as lead authority delivering the fund. South Cambridgeshire District Council is responsible for grant scheme delivery and allocation.
- For full grant criteria and application for the grants please visit the South Cambridgeshire District Council webpage.