West Norfolk a priority for £220m funding as bids open for innovative projects

Bidding is open for West Norfolk organisations to win a share of the £220 million government fund set to be invested in innovative projects to boost the economy.

West Norfolk has been named a priority district for support during this round of government funding, which will enable universities, councils, voluntary and community sector and business support bodies in the area to submit a bid.

Councillor Graham Plant, the county council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for growing the economy, said: “This is an exciting opportunity for Norfolk to develop new schemes, which can be delivered by the end of March next year.

“It’s about finding new ways to tackle the challenges Norfolk faces, as we recover from the pandemic – from new approaches to skills and training, to cutting edge responses to climate change.

“The Government wants to establish new ways of working with local areas and wants to give communities a stronger voice in their future.”

Known as the community renewal fund, the project is part of the Government’s levelling-up agenda and aims to support innovative responses to local challenges and local need.

Within Norfolk, other areas identified as priority districts include Great Yarmouth, North Norfolk and Norwich. Categories for bids include investment in skills, local business, communities and place and supporting people into employment.

With the exception of skills and employment projects, bids should link to the Government’s clean growth and net zero agenda, contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gases.

All projects must be delivered fully and funding spent before the end of March 2022.

Bids must be submitted to Norfolk County Coucil by 5pm on Friday, March 14. Full details are available at https://www.norfolk.gov.uk/communityrenewalfund