Groundwork UK, independent administrators of the HS2 Community and Environment Fund (CEF) and Business and Local Economy Fund (BLEF) have released the HS2 Funds Annual Review for 2024/25.
In the last year, more than £2.4m has been awarded to 55 CEF and BLEF projects that support communities and businesses along the line of the route. Since 2017, the programme has funded 364 projects to the tune of over £20m.
The report highlights some of the impactful projects that have been funded via the programme, including a CEF award of £56,250 to Solihull Council, which has funded the creation of an accessible nature trail at Frog Lane in Balsall Common.
The nature trail comprises of wide, fenced, permissive footpaths which are suitable for dog walkers and link to a nearby farm shop and public right of way to increase accessibility to the site. Throughout the trail, 780m of British native species hedgerow is planted, including hawthorn, holly, spindleberry, field maple and alder buckthorn.
Increasing public access to the countryside and improving biodiversity has enabled both the local residents and nature to thrive amongst the rewilded and enhanced green space. The Mayor of Solihull, Cllr Shahin Ashraf MBE officially opened the trail to the public.
“I welcome the creation of another fantastic biodiverse green space here in Solihull. It is vital that we continue to preserve and enhance our natural environment. This beautiful nature trail is a fantastic addition to the community, and I hope visitors enjoy it just as much as the new wildlife will!”
The Mayor of Solihull, Cllr Shahin Ashraf MBE
In London, Bikeworks CIC received £56,426 for the ‘Cycle Connect’ project which provides local residents in Hammersmith, Ealing and North Kensington with safe, social and accessible transport.
Designed for older adults, people with disabilities, and those experiencing loneliness or reduced mobility, the project offers a unique way to stay active, connect with others, and reach key destinations. Using a side-by-side four-seater cycle, participants can choose to pedal alongside a trained Cycle Pilot, or simply enjoy the ride. Whether visiting local shops, community hubs, or attending appointments, participants benefit from increased independence and social interaction.
“Cycle Connect provides a vital, inclusive transport solution, supporting people to stay active, independent, and socially connected. Thanks to HS2 funding, we increased our reach to more residents who face mobility barriers, ensuring they can access local amenities, connect with their community, and enjoy the benefits of cycling. At Bikeworks, we’re committed to breaking down barriers to active travel, thank you for supporting us.”
Zoe Portlock, Co-CEO & Co-Founder of Bikeworks CIC
South Northants Volunteer Bureau also received £75,000 for the Brackley Volunteer Car Service which enables members of the community who struggle to access public transport to attend necessary medical appointments. Thanks to the funding, South Northants Volunteer Bureau have welcomed 11 new drivers. This means the service now serves over 500 passengers who benefit from better accessibility and a lack of social isolation.
“The funding provided by HS2 has enabled Brackley Volunteer Car Service to complete over 4,000 medical journeys for our community members, covering more than 80,000 miles and generating a social value of over £116,000. Community transport is vital for connecting areas like ours with limited public transport access. The project continues to aid those in need locally while providing more volunteering opportunities. It has enhanced access to services, alleviated isolation, and supported independent living. We express our sincere gratitude to HS2 for their significant contribution to improving and empowering the lives of our community members.”
Rachel Page, Operations Manager at South Northants Volunteer Bureau
“Travelling into our Birmingham office by train brings a daily reminder that HS2 is now getting very real, with a huge new viaduct sweeping through the city centre into what will be the Curzon Street terminus. The impacts being delivered by the projects funded through CEF and BLEF may not be quite so visible, but can be equally transformative for those involved. Celebrating our 300th grant award during 2024 was a special moment, and a reminder of just how many great ideas and committed community organisations there are across the length of the line.”
Graham Duxbury, Groundwork’s UK Chief Executive
“In funding community-led projects, the variety of activities has grown again in the last year, including the Funds supporting for the first time projects working with people experiencing homelessness. I am pleased that we have also supported projects in urban and rural areas to once again increase local people’s health and wellbeing, improve the lives of children and young people, enhance the environment, and improve buildings and facilities to bring communities together. I hope you enjoy reading about the valuable work taking place by the Funds via projects along the line of route; as a CEF and BLEF team it has been a privilege to support these communities.”
Cathy Elliott, Independent Chair of the HS2 Funds
