Grassroots groups benefit from councillors’ grants

Radstock Scouts, Whisty Community Hall, SWAN, and this summer’s Creativity Works Artwork’s Festival have all benefited from the funding under Bath and North East Somerset local councillors initiative.

The fund is set aside for local councillors to spend on grassroots community projects and the Radstock funding comes from councillor Simon Allen.

Councillor Allen said: “The Ward Councillors’ Initiative fund allows us to spend money on the grassroots projects that really need it in our area.

“Ever since the total sum of £4,000 was allocated to me last autumn, I have taken a lot of time to meet individuals and groups to see how the money should be spent.”

Of the £2,250 left in Mr Allen’s fund Radstock Scouts were allocated £500 to redecorate the scout hall on Wells Road with the same amount going to Whisty Community Hall, for the purchase of new tables.

Mr Allen also gave the South Wansdyke Advice Network £500 towards their transport scheme.

Creativity Works/nesa received £750 funding for this summer’s Artworks Festival.

Local Lib Dem campaigner Gabby Durham, who is also a local Scout leader, said: “The funding provided to the Scouts has helped immensely.

“The organisation does a lot of work to teach young people new skills, to become active citizens and to learn about respect and valuing community.”

For the last two years B&NES Councillors have been allocated funding to spend in their wards. Mr Allen was earmarked £4,000 for 2010/11 to spend in Radstock.