A new funding opportunity for community buildings in rural areas of York has been announced by City of York Council.

The Community Buildings Fund will fund capital improvements that support decarbonisation and digital connectivity, as well as making general improvements and refurbishments. Funded via the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF), there is a total of £150,000 capital available to support successful projects.

Support for a wide range of projects

Open to anyone who owns or is responsible for running a community building in an area of York designated as rural, the new fund can support a range of activities including:

• Improving energy efficiency and insulation
• Installing new equipment which will reduce energy usage
• Upgrading or installing broadband and Wi-Fi
• Upgrading or installing hearing loops and similar digital infrastructure.

Support is also available for general repairs, improvements and refurbishment alongside work to decarbonise or improve digital facilities.

Contact Community First Yorkshire for support

Community First Yorkshire has been involved in the development of the fund, consulting with a number of community buildings in the area. Now the Community Support North Yorkshire team is on hand to help develop individual applications.

City of York Council is advising applicants to speak to the team before submitting a bid to ensure it stands the best possible chance of success.

For more information, download the Application Form and the Guidance for Applicants.

The fund opens on Thursday 1 August 2024 and the closing date for applications is 5pm on Friday 6 September 2024. Applications received after this will not be considered.

To contact the Community Support North Yorkshire team email communitysupport@communityfirstyorkshire.org.uk or call 01904 704177.