Almost three years since the launch of the funding programme, we are pleased to say that local communities have now benefitted to the tune of over £4.6m thanks to funding from the HS2 Community and Business Funds.
Today, the interactive map has been updated with 9 new projects, including;
In the West Midlands, The Worth Foundation Limited have been awarded £75,000 to create an enterprise hub on the Firs and Bromford estate to provide employment and training opportunities for local people.
In London, Bubblesqueakeat CIC have secured funds of just under £75,000 to launch their ‘Creating Futures through Bubble & Squeak’ project that will provide the local community with healthy, affordable food all while building skills and confidence of local people, including a community food stall and afterschool clubs for local young people to learn how to make healthy meals.
Chipping Warden and Edgcote Parish Council have also been awarded £75,000 to install a full range of multi-use play equipment and outdoor gym equipment which will provide a safe and accessible activity area for the whole community.
Cathy Elliott, Independent Chair of CEF and BLEF, said:
“As we head into 2020, I am delighted that CEF & BLEF has reached the over £4.6 million mark by supporting projects in communities all along the Phase One line of route. Visiting some of these successful applicants and seeing first-hand the positive outcomes from these projects has been so rewarding. I look forward to seeing which projects will gain valuable investment for their communities and local economies in the future.”
Two funds – CEF & BLEF – with a combined total of £40million, are available to local communities and businesses that are demonstrably disrupted by the construction of HS2 between London and the West Midlands. The funds opened in March 2017 and so far have 88 projects have been awarded funding.
