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Grants of up to £40k available for your project from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Rural England Prosperity Fund!

Last updated: 12/1/2024

Organisations delivering a project can apply for up to £40k from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF), supported by the UK Government.

Rushcliffe Borough Council is inviting community groups, businesses, voluntary or public sector organisations from anywhere in the Borough to apply for the support by Friday January 19, 2024. 

Projects can cover a broad range of initiatives and examples include:

  • Creating and improving local green spaces
  • Supporting local arts, cultural, heritage and creative activities
  • Boosting local sports facilities, tournaments, teams and leagues
  • Supporting businesses to grow
  • Diversification of farm businesses

Projects must be delivered in Rushcliffe and must be able to spend their funding allocation between April 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025.

The ruin of St Mary’s Church in Colston Bassett was one of 15 projects that received grants in the last round of funding which enabled essential masonry repair work to the Scheduled Ancient Monument and Grade 1 listed building.

The church was deteriorating, and the restoration work has allowed it to be safely kept open to the public who enjoy visiting the site and its churchyard.

The ruins of St May's Church in Colston Bassett
The ruins of St May's Church in Colston Bassett

Deputy Leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council Cllr Abby Brennan said: “We are very pleased that we’re allocating further support to business and community projects through our UKSPF and REPF 2024/25 grant funds.

“From rural and urban business development to impactful community projects, we know how these grants can transform projects and help them reach their goals or aspire to new ones.

“St Mary’s Church is a beautiful place for quiet reflection and tranquillity, open to all. It is rich in history and culture and attracts tourism to the village and surrounding area.

“Walking groups regularly use the footpaths to see the ruins and picturesque views from the hilltop and visitors also explore the village centre stopping at local businesses including Colston Bassett Dairy and The Martin’s Arms.

“Through UKSPF and REPF, essential repairs are taking place to conserve the building and prevent further deterioration. This is a crucial project which will further protect one of our historic landmarks in the Borough.

“Applications for any projects that benefit the community and the Borough or boost productivity or spread opportunities, are open until January 19 and I encourage anyone in the Borough with an eligible application to take advantage of this funding opportunity.”

Church Warden Edward Hine added: “The ruin and surrounding graveyard are highly valued by residents and visitors alike. Without this grant funding the project would have been impossible to deliver.

“The grant will make sure we can keep free access to St. Marys ruined Church for many years to come.”

Find out more about the UKSPF and REPF grant funding on our website or email UKSPFenquiries@rushcliffe.gov.uk

St Mary's Church ruins in Colston Bassett
St Mary's Church ruins in Colston Bassett