The Council has awarded £64,274 to eight projects that will improve local facilities, support community activities, promote sustainability and enhance opportunities for residents across the district.

Chair of the Community Grant Scheme Panel, Cllr Natasha Harpley, said:

These grants will make a real difference to communities across Broadland, helping local organisations deliver projects that improve facilities, support residents and bring people together. "From renewable energy projects and improved community spaces to swimming facilities and community transport, this funding will help a wide range of initiatives that contribute to thriving and resilient communities. We are pleased to be able to support these valuable local projects."

The successful projects were:

• Frettenham Parish Council – £14,070 towards a new trod path linking residential areas with the village hall and recreation ground.

• Friends of Heather Avenue First School – £1,956 for a replacement storage shed and wendy house.

• Great Plumstead Bowls and Social Club – £6,517 to equip new kitchen and bar areas.

• Horsford Parish Council – £14,070 to install solar photovoltaic panels, battery storage and electric vehicle charging points at Horsford Village Hall.

• Lingwood Village Hall – £1,688 for equipment and facilities for the Hug a Mug café kitchen.

• Little Fish Ltd – £13,122 to support the operational management of the swimming pool at Thorpe St Andrew High School and Sixth Form.

• Social Moments – £8,442 towards a community vehicle to expand its Social Shop programme.

• Spixworth Bowls Club – £4,409 to install solar panels on the pavilion roof.

Several projects also secured additional support through Members' Ward Grants, helping to further increase investment in local communities.

The Broadland Community Grant Scheme supports projects that deliver lasting benefits for residents and contribute to the council's ambitions for vibrant, healthy and sustainable communities. Find out more about all the grants available here.