In a bid to safeguard the future of beloved community establishments, the UK government has announced a significant investment of over £12.3 million through the Community Ownership Fund. This funding is set to breathe new life into 45 essential spaces across the country, ranging from cozy pubs to enriching museums and inclusive sports clubs.
The heart of this initiative is to empower local communities to take ownership and responsibility for these cherished institutions, ensuring their survival for generations to come. The grants will empower hardworking community groups to not only preserve these spaces but also make them accessible and beneficial to all members of the community.
“One standout project that will benefit from this funding is the restoration of a historic Yorkshire railway bridge, known as Bridge 27, connecting Keighley and Oxenhope. With £1 million dedicated to its reconstruction, this project will secure the longevity of a tourist rail line used by over 250,000 passengers annually. Dating back to 1867, this iconic bridge has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including the classic “The Railway Children” in 1970”.
David Pearson, Co-ordinator for External Finance and resources at the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway Preservation Society expressed gratitude for the funding, emphasizing its significance: “It means that the long-term survival of train services on the railway is ensured and means everything to our railway, our villages, & our people.”
“Beyond the realm of transportation, the Community Ownership Fund is catalyzing projects that promote education and culture. For instance, an educational aerospace discovery center in Kinross will receive £300,000 to offer interactive learning opportunities and inspire future generations to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)”.
Additionally, the Vale of Aeron pub in Ystrad Aeron, Wales, frequented by the legendary poet Dylan Thomas, will undergo £300,000 worth of renovations. These efforts aim to keep the pub open and accessible to the entire community, preserving its historical and cultural significance.
Jacob Young, Minister for Levelling Up, commented on the government’s commitment to community support: “Our priority is to support communities and deliver opportunities right across the country, which is why we’re investing £12.3m to secure the future of cherished community institutions.”
“Other notable projects benefiting from the Community Ownership Fund include the Lordsfield Swimming Club in Hampshire, Knutsford Market Hall in Cheshire, Sterts Theatre in Cornwall, the Margate School in Kent, and the Dartford Gym and Youth Club”.
The success of this initiative is underscored by the fact that it has already allocated £49.3 million for 195 projects across the UK, fostering community resilience and vitality. The latest round of funding includes allocations for projects in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
The Community Ownership Fund continues to accept applications for grants, encouraging groups to apply for funding up to £2 million until October 11, 2023. This program serves as a beacon of hope for preserving community spaces and strengthening bonds among local residents across the United Kingdom.
Source: Gov[Dot]UK
