A �50,000 boost for Norwich projects

Tens and thousands of pounds are to be spent on enhancing the quality of life in Broadland using council tax money collected from second homeowners.

Five schemes, which range from helping to restore an urban nature reserve near Norwich to supporting families with mental health issues, will share almost �50,000.

The projects have been selected for funding by the Broadland Community Partnership and each one is designed to address one of five specific priority issues identified by the partnership - biodiversity projects to improve the countryside in Broadland, initiatives to involve people in community activities, raising skills levels and aspirations among young people, reducing rural social isolation and preventing ill health.

Partnership chairman Simon Woodbridge said: 'Across all five categories we received 30 submissions in total, so there were some tough choices to make, and several of the projects that missed out this time could well be suitable for future funding.

'We are confident the projects we have chosen to commission will make a real difference in these key areas of life for Broadland residents.'

The five winning bids are Norfolk Wildlife Trust which will receive �9,600 for a biodiversity study and habitat restoration work at Thorpe Marshes Nature Reserve; The Garage in Norwich, a project that uses the performing arts to encourage social inclusion among young people, will receive �12,000 to deliver a youth-based initiative mainly in Brundall; and Broadland Council Training Services will be awarded �9,845 to offer a package of measures in the district targeted specifically at youngsters who may not go on to jobs, further education or training.

Norfolk and Norwich Families House will receive �6,000 to set up an intervention service to support six families in Broadland where mental health issues have been identified and Norfolk Rural Community Council will get �12,000 to provide dedicated support for young people in Cawston who do not have access to services and facilities available in larger villages and towns, including setting up a young club.

Each scheme will start later this year.

Has your project received a funding boost? Call reporter Kate Scotter on 01603 772326 or email kate.scotter@archant.co.uk