Stockport has been awarded £2.4 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) to support 'levelling-up' and various projects across the borough. 

This grant will be available not just to the council, but also to non-government organisations through a competitive bidding process, 'ensuring that the most impactful and transformative projects receive the support they need'.

Some money will go towards: improving the town centre and high streets, including better disabled access; improved greenspaces, watercourses and natural features in public areas; and support for local arts, cultural, heritage and creative activities. 

Other funds will go towards the Town of Culture programme. Not just to deliver events, but also to fund 'infrastructure at cultural venues' (new exhibitions, for instance), or 'programmes of cultural activity that become a regular part of Stockport's annual events programme'. 

Whilst this £2.4 million grant will not fund individuals, families, or activities which duplicate an existing service, funding remains available for 'strong applications of smaller value where they have a positive impact'.

Funding is available to local organisations, not just the council (Image - Alasdair Perry)

Projects eligible for funding encompass a wide range of areas, including but not limited to:

• Community regeneration and development initiatives
• Infrastructure improvements to enhance connectivity and accessibility
• Promoting social inclusion and cohesion
• Sustainable and environmentally friendly urban planning
• Digital innovation and smart city initiatives
• Heritage and cultural preservation and enhancement
• Projects that enhance public spaces and community facilities

Stockport Council says: "This funding will empower local authorities, community groups, and stakeholders to collaborate on innovative projects that contribute to the long-term well-being and prosperity of their regions."

The government describes the UKSPF as "a central pillar of the UK government's ambitious Levelling Up agenda and a significant component of its support for places across the UK". 

In total, Greater Manchester's 10 local authorities received £25.3 million. 

Each local authority submitted a proposal for their allocation, which was approved by the UKSPF Local Partnership Board and by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. Funding was released earlier this year with projects now getting underway.

The £2.4m grant will last three years (Image - Alasdair Perry)

Cllr Mark Hunter, leader of Stockport Council said: "Empowered communities and well-planned, vibrant places are the backbone of a thriving Stockport. This UKSPF funding will help us to deliver on the ambition and priorities set out in our Borough Plan and will support our Town of Culture plans. 

"This funding also provides vital support to the Council, organisations, and individuals who are working tirelessly to improve the lives of people in our communities. It will also drive sustainable growth, foster social cohesion, and create activities that everyone can take part in and environments where everyone can flourish."

You can find more details, including how to apply for some of this funding, HERE.

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