Project support scheme launches

Published Wednesday 12 July, 2023
Last updated on Thursday 22 February, 2024

Swale Borough Council has launched the Community Infrastructure Grant (CIG) scheme to support projects to improve the viability and encourage the use of important community assets.

Grants of between £1,000 and £7,000 are available to cover up to 75% of the capital cost of projects that improve community infrastructure across the borough.

The CIG scheme will provide funding to projects supporting specific themes, and the type of projects that could be eligible for a grant include:

• Warm and sustainable – insulation, green power, LED lighting
• Fit for purpose – alterations, improvements, and new facilities
• Digitally Connected – fast broadband and Wi-Fi
• Welcome and work – café development, creating or improving meeting and workspace
• Mobility - EV charging points, bike storage.

Cllr Monique Bonney, chair of the council’s regeneration and property committee, said:

“The Community Infrastructure Grant scheme has been set up to support a range of projects that benefit the community.

“This could be things like increasing the use of community buildings, through things like enabling improved or expanded activities or services.

“We’ll also support projects that can help improve the environmental and financial sustainability of community facilities through carbon reduction measures, or encourage walking, cycling or use of electric vehicles.”

Successful projects should be able to be completed by the 31 March 2024 and applicants will need to set out what outcomes are expected from the investment. This could be increased visitor numbers to a facility, a new service being delivered because of the investment, or a reduction in carbon footprint.

For any organisation considering investing in reducing their Carbon footprint and increasing energy efficiency, a bespoke advisory service is also available, free of charge. Contact prosperityfund@swale.gov.uk for more information.

The CIG is funded through the Rural England Prosperity Fund and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.  The greater part of the funding available will be used in rural areas, but some funding remains available to the whole borough.

Applications for the CIG scheme are open now with a closing date of 21 August 2023.  However, given the total fund is limited, if the fund becomes over-subscribed, applications may have to close early.

Find out more about the criteria for the CIG, including how to apply.