Community groups in Kent’s former coalfields are invited to apply for grants to help a range of projects for the future.

Grants from £500 to £5,000 are available from the Coalfields Regeneration Trust’s ‘Bridging The Gap’ fund, through Dover District Council (DDC).

Groups can apply for grants to support activities that improve health and well-being, develop education and skills, support access to opportunities, and promote volunteering.

Successful projects will have to target the former coalfields  areas of Aylesham, Barham Downs, Eastry, Eythorne and Shepherdswell, Little Stour and Ashstone, Middle Deal and Sholden, Mill Hill, North Deal and St Margaret’s-at-Cliffe.

Coalfields Regeneration Chair Peter McNestry said: “The Coalfields Regeneration Trust is happy to be able to continue its investment in Kent. The Trust is still committed to improving the quality of life in coalfield communities. We are striving to make our former coalfields sustainable, prosperous, viable and cohesive without support. We are investing in them to become better places to live, work and play.”

For more information, or if you would like to apply to this grant fund please contact Carol Davies at DDC on 01304 872081 or e-mail carol.davies@dover.gov.uk [4]  

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2011©