Community projects in Swanage are being encouraged to apply for a grant of up to £5,000 from Dorset Council’s Leisure Development Fund.
It’s aimed at cultural, sporting and community organisations including town and parish councils across Dorset.
Swanage Tennis Club was awarded £4,000
The last time money was awarded from the fund was in March 2020 and one of the successful applicants was Swanage Tennis Club which was awarded £4,000 towards the cost of upgrading one of the floodlit tarmac courts to an astro-turf surface.
Another beneficiary last time was the Purbeck Mineral and Mining Museum at Norden near Corfe Castle which received £4,000 to improve its facilities for craft and educational activities.
Direct benefit of people living or working in Dorset
The main aim of the fund, which awards around £100,000 a year, is to support the development of the arts, museums and heritage, outdoor play, village halls and sports for the direct benefit of people living or working in Dorset.
Grants of up to £5,000 are available and applications can be made for up to 20 percent of a project’s cost and the money can be used for one-off or capital projects.
“Encourage community groups to apply”
Councillor Jill Haynes, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for customer, community and regulatory services, said:
“I’m proud that Dorset Council will be supporting efforts to enrich the lives of people who live and work in Dorset through this funding.
“Previously we have awarded funds to a diverse range of organisations and projects, including activities for young people with disabilities, radio equipment, art and theatre projects, updating sport club facilities and even a pop-up museum.
“I would like to encourage community groups to apply for funds by visiting the website and speaking with their local ward councillor about their ideas. I’m looking forward to hearing about all the wonderful things that residents are planning and how we might be able to help.”
The closing date for applications is Thursday 31st December 2020. Decision letters will be sent to all applicants in February 2021.
More details are available on the Dorset Council website or by calling 01305 252250.
