Cornwall Council Awards £1.9 Million in Grants for Community Projects

Approximately £1.9 million in grants from Cornwall Council will be distributed among various projects throughout Cornwall, including village halls, community spaces, and youth centres. Cornwall Council disclosed that this funding, sourced from the community infrastructure levy (CIL), is designated for 23 specific projects aimed at benefiting local communities and fostering development. The council noted that since the initial funding round in 2020, over £5.7 million from this levy has been allocated to projects throughout the county. Olly Monk, the Cabinet portfolio holder for housing and planning, stated: “With this funding we are able to support many worthwhile schemes and organisations working to improve facilities and access to opportunities.” He added: “There are many organisations working to improve life for our communities and I am pleased we are able to put CIL funding to very good use.” A portion of the levy, specifically between 15% and 25%, is directed to the town or parish where development has occurred, while 5% is kept by Cornwall Council to cover the administrative expenses of CIL. The remaining funds are utilized for infrastructure projects designed to mitigate the broader effects of development. Among the initiatives that have received funding are Bodmin College, Village Hall and Walled Garden Charity, and St Mabyn Peace Memorial Hall. Prospective applicants were required to demonstrate local necessity and community backing for their proposals, as well as illustrate how their projects would either lessen the impact of development in a given area or contribute to development.