East Devon District Council has restarted its Community Building Fund and is offering grants for community buildings and shops in rural East Devon.

Rural communities who have a building which is used by multiple groups or a village shop, or those who are planning a capital investment or refurbishments, are being urged by the council to apply for financial help from its Community Building Fund.

Community use buildings, Village halls and community shops in East Devon's villages and rural areas are eligible for the grant, but those which are covered by a town council are not eligible.

The grants could be put towards improve rural buildings and it can be used for a range of purposes, which could include adding or improving toilet facilities, creating kitchen facilities, floor repairs or making the building more efficient.

The closing date for applications is Monday 27 June 2022.

In 2021/2022 successful applications included:

• Branscombe Village Hall Sports Pavilion which received £3,000 towards renewing the Pavilion. 
• Lympstone Village Hall received £3,364 to help pay for audio and visual equipment to increase the usability and the appeal of the hall. 
• Northleigh Village Hall received £2,259 towards improving the surfacing of the car park, which was becoming difficult for people with mobility issues.  

Cllr Jack Rowland, Chair of East Devon District Council's Community Grants Panel said: "Community buildings and community shops in the rural areas of our district are such an important part of many people's lives especially in these times when the help of supportive communities through many ways is even more important.

"The examples of successful bids show what can be achieved with this grant and we look forward to receiving new applications that meet the criteria."

You can find out more information and apply for a grant here.