Community Spaces Receive Over £80,000 for Solar Upgrades

Six cherished community facilities in the Forest of Dean are set to benefit from a funding boost exceeding £80,000, as part of the latest round of the Community Asset Grants approved by the Forest of Dean District Council. This financial support will aid a variety of projects, including roof repairs and solar panel installations, aimed at enhancing village halls, sporting facilities, heritage sites, and a community pub.

Investment in Local Facilities

Councillor Sid Phelps, the cabinet member responsible for property and projects, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “The Community Asset Grants provide a great opportunity to support well-used community-owned buildings, reduce energy bills, and transform cherished local venues for future generations.” He emphasized the importance of these grants in ensuring the longevity of vital community assets.

The grant recipients represent a diverse array of local facilities, highlighting the council’s commitment to supporting various community needs. Councillor Phelps added, “I am delighted to see that the recipients of this year’s grant are from a diverse range of local facilities. We want to ensure these important community assets can operate long into the future, and the funding from the Community Assets Grant will help significantly with this.”

Details of the Funding

The total funding being allocated this round amounts to £80,719, sourced from the Rural England Prosperity Fund. Each project is required to achieve financial completion by March 2026, ensuring timely delivery of the improvements. This grant scheme not only aims to enhance the physical attributes of these community spaces but also focuses on reducing operational costs through energy efficiency measures.

For more information about the Community Asset Grants and the specific projects funded, residents can visit the council’s official website at www.fdean.gov.uk/repf. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to fostering sustainable community development and supporting the infrastructure that binds local residents together.