Empowering local communities through town and village partnerships
Epping Forest District Council (EFDC) has launched an exciting new initiative, Town and Village Partnerships, to help local communities unlock funding, drive regeneration, and shape the future of their high streets and neighbourhoods.
Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), this programme offers towns and villages the opportunity to form collaborative partnerships that bring together councils, businesses, community groups, and residents. These partnerships will work together to deliver projects that boost local economies, attract investment, and create vibrant, welcoming places for everyone.
Get started with a £1,000 kickstart grant
To help communities get up and running, we’re offering a £1,000 grant to support early-stage activities such as:
- Setting up the partnership
- Engaging local stakeholders
- Coordinating meetings
- Developing initial plans
What can partnerships achieve?
Town and Village Partnerships have already proven successful across the UK. By combining resources and aligning goals, they can deliver real, lasting improvements in areas such as:
- Economic Development: Support for local businesses, coordinated events, and marketing to increase footfall.
- Urban Regeneration: Enhancing public spaces and infrastructure to create more attractive, accessible environments.
- Community Engagement: Encouraging local pride and participation through inclusive planning and decision-making.
- Sustainability: Promoting green initiatives and environmentally friendly practices.
Unlock further funding for local projects
Once established, partnerships can apply for additional UKSPF funding to deliver specific projects that benefit their area. These could include:
- Seasonal markets, festivals, and community events
- Shopfront improvement schemes
- Public realm enhancements like planters, lighting, and signage
- Green initiatives such as community gardens or recycling hubs
- Youth and arts engagement projects
Lasting benefits to residents and economies
This is a great opportunity for local communities to take the lead in shaping their futures. With our support, towns and villages can build partnerships that bring lasting benefits to their residents and economies.
We encourage local councils, business groups, and community organisations to come together, express interest, and explore how they can benefit from this opportunity.
Cllr Holly Whitbread, Portfolio Holder for Finance & Economic Development
More information
For more information or to get involved, contact the Economic Development at:
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