Cheshire West awards £500,000 to rural projects

Cheshire West and Chester's rural support fund has awarded £513,000 to 28 projects in the borough.

The council said the cash would go towards capital projects with a total value of £5.5m.

In previous years it has supported village hall refurbishments, sports facilities, play area schemes and environmental improvements.

Cllr Ralph Oultram, chairman of the rural funds steering group, said: "We have been very impressed with the applications since the programme commenced and can see the real difference this funding can make to our rural communities. I urge community groups to apply now before the final deadlines."

There are two further deadlines for submissions in this financial year – January 31 and March 31.

The fund accepts applications from community organisations, charitable groups and other groups carrying out work for their local community.

Projects can apply for £5,000-£50,000 but require match funding of 50% and the work must be completed within a year of receiving the funds.

For more information contact Cheshire West and Chester's Rural Agenda Market Towns team on 01244 977475 or email ruralsupport@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.