Aerial shot of Ilford Town Centre at night

Funding available to community groups to help improve the borough through community-led projects and initiatives

Published: 16 July 2024

Redbridge Council is empowering local community groups by placing them at the heart of decision-making and providing funding for infrastructure projects, such as new green spaces and community facilities.

Redbridge Council is excited to announce the funding through the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funding programme, which provides a significant opportunity for local community groups.

NCIL is a portion of the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), a charge that councils and the Mayor of London collect from new developments like new houses or flats and commercial development, which can be spent on a variety of new infrastructure projects such as sustainable transport, green spaces and community facilities.

Applicants who meet the criteria can apply for up to £20,000 towards their project. This funding is versatile, supporting a wide range of projects, from enhancing existing initiatives to bringing new and innovative ideas to life.

Redbridge Council recently consulted with people on the new Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) funding programme and is now accepting applications from community groups in the borough. 

Cllr Kam Rai, Deputy Leader of Redbridge Council and Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration, said: "This programme is a prime example of how we're putting people at the heart of local decision-making.

"By making this funding available, people can now bid for money to help drive forward local projects that will benefit their community, ensuring it becomes a better place now and for future generations.

"We want people to take pride in their borough and would therefore welcome applications from people or groups that show evidence of how their project will make Redbridge cleaner, greener, healthier, and safer. Apply now, and let's work together to make Redbridge a better place for everyone."

During the consultation, people were asked to vote for their top priorities in their local area.

The following project categories were chosen:

Greening the Borough

They can be projects to improve local public gardens and open spaces, planting projects or support for existing greening projects.

 Health and Wellbeing

They can be projects that promote walking, sports and general health and fitness for all ages.

 Environmental Sustainability

They can be projects that support the Council's climate change action plan through local initiatives and help reduce carbon emissions.

 Sustainable Transport

They can be projects relating to walking and cycling or improving infrastructure for sustainable transport.

 Community Safety

They can be projects that help guard against crime or support road safety around schools.

 Empowering Young People

They can be projects that encourage youth representation, provide mentoring and help young people explore their interests and potential.

Find out more about applying for Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy funding and start making a difference in your community today.

Take advantage of this opportunity to bring your community project to life. Apply now!

Funding criteria:

Project proposals must meet the council's project assessment criteria and align with the top funding priorities, as voted for by the community. The funding panel will consider valid applications and make the final decision on whether to fund the project. To apply, visit our website and fill out the online application form. You can also arrange an appointment to discuss your project with a council officer and receive help and guidance for your application.

You must be part of a constituted group to apply, including voluntary groups and residents' associations. You may apply as an individual via a constituted group, provided that you have the group's support to do so. All projects must benefit Redbridge residents.

Key dates:

Appointments can be arranged to discuss your project with a council officer and receive help and guidance for your application.

Please get in touch with Redbridge Council to book an appointment.

Appointment spaces are limited and can only be booked during the following weeks:

  • Week commencing 5 August 2024
  • Week commencing 19 August 2024
  • Week commencing 2 September 2024

Help with your application can also be obtained by contacting Community Action Redbridge

Workshops:

You can learn about the funding programme at the workshop and discuss your project ideas. Venues and dates for the workshops are as follows:

  • Redbridge Central Library, Gloucester Room, 3 - 5pm, Tuesday 30 July 2024
  • Redbridge Central Library, Studio 2, 3 - 5pm, Monday 12 August 2024