ORGANISATIONS in a borough's villages can now bid for capital grants for new projects.

Ribble Valley Council has launched a £433,680 scheme aimed at its rural communities.

The cash comes from the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) - a top-up to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund which replaces European Union structural regional funding post-Brexit.

The money is aimed at supporting rural communities with a view to strengthening them and driving economic growth in the process.

Ribble Valley Council is targeting the scheme at rural villages who wish to invest in capital projects.

Numerous organisations, including parish councils, community organisations, faith groups, public sector organisations and higher and further education institutions are eligible to apply.

Nicola Hopkins, Ribble Valley Council’s director of economic development, said: “Securing the additional top-up from the REPF presents a fantastic opportunity for community groups and rural villages who wish to expand, grow, and improve their community facilities and services.

“The funding can be used across a variety of projects such as community energy schemes, to enhance community gardens and green spaces or for the installation of EV charging points for the local community.”

Eligible organisations and groups can apply now for the grant.

The first stage is to fill in an Expression of Interest Form, which can be found on Ribble Valley Council website: UK Shared Prosperity Fund – Ribble Valley Borough Council.