Coalburn is included in the new Community Benefit funding programme from SP Energy Networks. The first tranche of funding will offer grants from a pot of £6.82m alongside practical support to community groups based near eligible transmission infrastructure. This grant, developed in close cooperation with local communities, is committed to delivering lasting and impactful benefits to the people and places where eligible electricity transmission infrastructure projects take place.

The eligibility for this grant is based on geographical Community Council areas. Each Community Council has an Action Plan that, as a result of local consultation, highlights the main themes that are of utmost importance to their community. These detailed priorities have informed the grant’s funding themes and will inform the assessment of grant applications.

We would most welcome applications that are well aligned with the priorities highlighted for Coalburn. Organisations should apply under the grant theme that best reflects their project.

The below information details the priorities for Coalburn which will be used to assess grant applications. Please note that these priorities are currently out for local consultation and will be updated accordingly for future grant programmes.

• Strengthening financial resilience and educational inclusion: Develop more community activities which are intergenerational and appeal to working families
• Employability support and skills development: Attract businesses and provide training and employment opportunities
• Social and digital inclusion, wellbeing and active lifestyles: Improve social spaces, and strengthen collaboration between different community groups
• Improving community spaces and buildings: Strengthen and expand local facilities to meet the needs of a growing population
• Enhancing green spaces and access to nature: Improve outdoor spaces and create accessible places for people to meet
• Sustainable and inclusive transport: Expand travel links to neighbouring villages and enhance parking provision

Grants of between £1,000 and £10,000 are available. The fund will accept applications from Tuesday 20th January until Friday 8th May at 5pm. The first window closed on Friday 13th March with outcomes confirmed in May. The second window is now open and closes on Friday 8th May, with applicants informed of the outcome in July.

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SP Energy Networks together with Localgiving has ensured its community benefit funds are aligned with community interests and priorities by undertaking extensive research and engaging collaboratively with local communities. Key community priorities were identified through our consultations, with fund applicants required to deliver on at least one area of local improvement through their project.

Guy Jefferson, Transmission Managing Director at SP Energy Networks, said on the opening of the Fund: “This new funding programme reflects our belief that the communities who host our infrastructure should also share in the benefits it brings. It’s about backing local people with the resources, knowledge and tools they need to build a stronger future. Investing in the grid is about more than just infrastructure, it’s also about leaving a positive legacy for the areas we serve. This funding is one way we’re making sure communities aren’t just part of the transition to a greener future, they’re at the heart of it.”

Further information about the process can be found below in our FAQs and in our Application Guidance Pack Document which includes important eligibility information and key questions answered. Find out more about the process in creating the grant with our Research Document. 

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If you need assistance or have any questions, please contact our Community Team -SPENGrassrootsGrants@Localgiving.Org

We look forward to supporting your cause and community