Community building that are in need of a refurb can now qualify for a special grant, to help towards to the cost of building works.

The scheme, being run by East Devon District Council (EDDC), aims to help rural community buildings and community shops with projects such as new or improved toilet facilities, kitchen facilities, floor repairs or energy efficiency measures.

Projects that have already had help include:

  • Lympstone Village Hall which received £3,364 towards audio-visual equipment, including a new ceiling projector, in the village hall to help it become more sustainable.
  • Northleigh Village Hall which got £2,590 to help them pay to resurfacing its car park. This will make it much safer for people with physical mobility issues to use the hall.

EDDC is now urging rural local communities who are planning building projects or refurbishments to apply for financial help from from the Community Buildings Fund.

The Community Building Fund can help fund projects for everything from village halls and community buildings to community shops, by offering grants of anything up to £5,000. Buildings in East Devon villages and rural areas are eligible (those within an area covered by a town council cannot apply).

Councillor Jack Rowland, Chair of East Devon District Council’s Community Grants Panel, said:

I’d encourage eligible communities to take full advantage of applying for this funding as the examples demonstrate what can be achieved to improve these vital facilities. The community buildings are even more important in these current times as a hub for so many activities that help sustain and build friendships and support within their local area.

Interested applicants can find all the information they need, including application forms, on the East Devon website.

The closing date for applications is on Friday, 14 January 2022.