Local community projects boosted with £2.3 million of funding

16 Jul 2019 01:20 PM

Funding of almost £2.4 million for community-based projects across Wales has been awarded by the Welsh Government.

The Community Facilities Programme provides funding for organisations to ensure sustainability for local, community-run projects.

Each project awarded funding is a well-used, often community-owned facility which brings people together.

Since the programme began in 2015 it has funded 121 projects, covering every local authority in Wales. Grants to date total £22.2 million, with funding awarded at 2 levels; small grants of under £25,000 and larger grants of up to £250,000.

The Deputy Minister and Chief Whip Jane Hutt, yesterday said:

The Community Facilities Programme is a fantastic opportunity, offering grants to community-led projects to improve regularly accessed and much needed community facilities. These include sports clubs, community centres, village halls and green spaces.

I’m pleased to announce 16 projects who’ll benefit from a share of over £2.3 million in funding, enabling projects worth close to £5.3 million to go ahead.

Applications are open year-round for this programme and I’d urge any local facilities to find out more and see if this funding could help them evolve and grow for their community and its needs.

Race Council Cymru were awarded funding to develop a cultural hub at Swansea’s Grand Theatre. Working in partnership with 15 organisations in the city, they plan to turn unused space into offices and studios with an events area for digital and cultural events.

Ray Singh CBE, Chair of Race Council Cymru, yesterday said:

Welsh Government’s support in establishing a ‘BAME Cultural and Digital Hub’ is not only timely but forward thinking in helping to bring all sections of community together and help build a cohesive society in Swansea and beyond.

As this Hub comes to life Swansea will bring into reality its ethos as a City of Sanctuary to all Nations. We thank all those who have worked together to make this Hub a reality.

Applications for the next round of funding are accepted year-round. Search online for ‘Community Facilities Programme’.