Pennyfarthing Homes is encouraging community organisations, charities and local groups across the New Forest to take advantage of a significant funding opportunity that could help bring local projects to life.
New Forest District Council is currently inviting applications to its Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Fund, with grants of up to £100,000 available for projects that improve local infrastructure and benefit communities. Around £1 million has been made available this year to support initiatives ranging from community facilities and green spaces to sports clubs, play areas and sustainable transport improvements.
The funding is made possible through Community Infrastructure Levy contributions paid by developers as part of new housing developments, ensuring that local communities directly benefit from investment in the area.
As one of the New Forest’s leading housebuilders, Pennyfarthing Homes is proud to play a significant part in supporting this investment. The company contributes substantial sums through the Community Infrastructure Levy, with a recent contribution of more than £600,000 made as part of the first phase of a development of 74 new homes at Sandle Park in Fordingbridge.
Pennyfarthing’s flagship Danes Park development in New Milton will make more than £1.3 million in CIL contributions, helping to enhance wider local infrastructure and invest in community facilities that will benefit local residents. That is in addition to the c£1m of financial contributions secured in the S106 Agreement, including towards local schools and other directly related mitigation measures.
While these contributions are a statutory requirement, Pennyfarthing Homes believes they represent an important opportunity to help communities thrive alongside new development.
Nick Stone, Land and Planning Director for Pennyfarthing Homes, said: “Creating new homes is about much more than building houses; it’s about helping to create sustainable, thriving communities. The Community Infrastructure Levy plays an important role in ensuring that investment from new development is channelled back into the places where people live, work and spend their time.
“We’re proud that our developments are contributing significant funding towards community infrastructure, and we’d encourage local organisations, charities and community groups to explore projects that could benefit from this opportunity. Whether it’s improving sports facilities, enhancing community spaces and infrastructure or delivering projects that bring people together, this funding has the potential to make a real and lasting difference.”
Community Infrastructure Levy funding is separate from the proportion of funds allocated directly to town and parish councils. It is specifically available to support local infrastructure projects that deliver clear community benefits.
Eligible organisations are encouraged to review the funding criteria and submit applications before the closing date. Further information, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, is available on New Forest District Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy webpage or click here.
