Local groups should apply for funding to upgrade community centres – Burke
• Online registration process now open, closing date for applications is July 14
Community groups and organisations in Westmeath are invited to apply for a new round of funding for the upgrade and refurbishment of community centres, Minister Peter Burke has said today.
“The fund will provide grants of between €10,000 and €300,000 for the upgrade of facilities. Fine Gael want to build stronger and safer communities by making our towns, villages and parishes across Westmeath better places to live, work, run a business and raise a family.
“My colleague, Minister Heather Humphreys TD, has announced that registration is now open for a new €15 million capital fund for the upgrade and refurbishment of community centres.
“Funding is available for capital works such as improvements to communal facilities such as kitchen and toilet facilities, energy retrofitting, new windows, doors, heating systems, works to address safety concerns and works to improve disability access.
“All interested applicants have to register online at gov.ie/CommunityCentresFund before 14 July. Registration for the fund must be completed prior to submitting a formal application.
“I would strongly encourage local groups and organisations to attend information sessions and learn about the application process and criteria before submitting their formal application."
Applicants can also register to attend an information session at gov.ie/CommunityCentresFund.
“Completing these two important steps will help to ensure your organisation is well placed to submit a strong application to this fund.”
Minister Humphreys said she is reminding interested groups that there is just two weeks to go for them to submit their applications to her department for consideration.
She said the fund would breathe new life into towns and villages, bring communities together, and create welcoming spaces for people to socialise.
“For any community group that still has questions about their applications, I’m urging you today to attend the final online information clinic, which is on Monday, July 11.”
That final support clinic is on Monday July 11, 12.30-2pm – register here to attend.