Glasgow City Council has approved plans to bid for funding from the UK Government for three new programmes – the Community Renewal, Levelling Up, and Community Ownership Funds. These initiatives aim to address critical areas of need across the city, from economic recovery to cultural preservation and community empowerment.
The first programme, the Community Renewal Fund, offers £220 million in funding through a competitive process. The fund prioritises investment in skills development, support for local businesses, community projects, and employment initiatives. Local authorities must submit a shortlist of projects by 18 June, with each project eligible for up to £3 million. Successful applicants will be announced from late July onwards. This fund aligns with broader national efforts to rebuild local economies and create sustainable job opportunities in the wake of the pandemic.
The Levelling Up Fund, which allocates £800 million for projects in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales, focuses on three key themes: improving local transport networks, revitalising town centres and high streets, and preserving cultural and heritage assets. The UK Government has developed an index to categorise local authorities based on need, considering factors such as economic recovery, transport connectivity, and regeneration. Glasgow has been placed in the top priority category for both the Community Renewal and Levelling Up funds, reflecting the city’s significant potential for growth and its pressing need for investment.
The third initiative, the Community Ownership Fund, provides £150 million to help community groups secure up to £250,000 in match-funding to acquire and manage local assets at risk of being lost. These assets could include community-owned sports clubs, cinemas, theatres, galleries, museums, parks, pubs, shops, and leisure facilities. A bidding prospectus for this fund is expected to be published in June, offering a lifeline to communities keen to preserve and operate these vital spaces as sustainable businesses.
Glasgow City Council’s approach to these funding opportunities involves a coordinated effort across its teams. The Economic Development team will lead the bidding and appraisal process for the Community Renewal Fund, working with partners and stakeholders through the Glasgow Partnership for Economic Growth. A strong focus on achieving ‘net zero’ goals is expected to underpin these efforts. Meanwhile, other council teams will manage the application processes for the Levelling Up and Community Ownership Funds, ensuring all submissions are reviewed by a council committee before the submission deadlines.
These funding programmes represent a significant opportunity for Glasgow to address long-standing challenges while fostering innovation and community resilience. By focusing on skills, infrastructure, and cultural preservation, the city can take meaningful steps towards a more inclusive and sustainable future. Residents and community groups are encouraged to stay informed about the application processes and explore how they can contribute to these transformative initiatives.
