New funding available for Dartmoor communities

Dartmoor National Park has just launched its Communities Fund for 2015/16. The Fund, supported by the New Homes Bonus from West Devon Borough, Teignbridge and South Hams District Councils, will support capital projects that ensure the long term viability of valued existing community facilities and services, or create new community infrastructure to meet identified community needs.

This year there is just over £48,000 in the pot, so if you have plans for your village hall, are thinking of setting up a new community shop or want to make the most of a valued local heritage asset the Dartmoor Communities Fund may be able to help!

The scheme is designed to be simple, flexible and responsive, providing clear guidance, supporting a one-step application process. Last year funding of nearly £40,000 was allocated to community projects with a value in excess of £200,000 including Holne village shop and community tea room, improvements to Palstone Park, South Brent and works to extend the use and income raising potential for village halls in Bittaford, Postbridge, Drewsteignton and Throwleigh. The Fund also helped improve playgrounds for children in Lydford and Yelverton.

The deadline for the first round of applications is 31 October 2015, with any further rounds being subject to funding availability.

The New Homes Bonus is a Government scheme encouraging local authorities to grant planning permission for the building of new houses in return for additional revenue. The support for Dartmoor Communities Fund is in recognition of Dartmoor National Park’s role as a planning authority.

Read more or contact Jo Rumble, Communities Officer, Dartmoor National Park on 01626 831024 email communitiesfund@dartmoor.gov.uk