RYEDALE District Council (RDC) has launched three new grant schemes to support community projects. They are:

- Community Grants - aimed at projects lead by local community groups;

- Public Open Space and Recreation Grants - using developer contributions to provide or improve greenspace, sports and recreation facilities;

- Flood Grants - to support community resilience plans and mitigate flood impacts.

Peter Johnson, RDC’s resources and enabling services lead, said: “Ryedale’s thriving voluntary groups and town and parish councils are very close to their communities and understand what services and facilities are needed locally.

“They have a great track record of achieving projects that improve quality of life in Ryedale; from village halls and play grounds to local history, disability action groups and support for young carers. The grants are intended to support these groups and projects to get going on the ground.”

Beckie Bennett, Delivery and Frontline Service Lead: “Following the Scrutiny Review into Ryedale District Council’s role in flood management, the Council agreed to establish a grant fund of £50,000 to support local community action and resilience for flood mitigation, so we will be working with local groups to support projects that protect homes and businesses in areas vulnerable to flooding.”

To apply, go to ryedale.gov.uk/services/community-living/community-grants.

Support for developing your project and making an application is available from the Community Team Officers. To contact the Team, email communityteam@ryedale.gov.uk or phone 01653 600666.

Grants are available in several rounds throughout the year, with the first closing date July 14.