THURROCK Council is calling for applications to the £220 million UK Community Renewal Fund, the initiative it has launched to replace funding that used to be available from the European Union.

Robert Jenrick, the secretary of state for housing, communities and local government says: "This is about more than replacing like with like.

"We can go beyond the limitations of EU funding with a successor to those arrangements far better tailored to the needs and aspirations of our own country.

"We recognise that each area has its unique challenges requiring unique solutions.

"So each pilot will empower places to explore how best to tackle local challenges– whether through building skills, supporting local businesses, supporting communities and places, or providing employment support – to build communities where people want to live, work and visit, while allowing government to evaluate how best to ensure levelling up right across the country.

"There is a real opportunity to help build the safer, greener, more prosperous and neighbourly country that we all want to see after Covid."

The government initiative aims to support organisations that wish to bring forward new imaginative ideas and innovative approaches that improve skills, support local businesses and communities, and enhance employment opportunities for Thurrock residents.

The council has been designated as a lead authority by the government for local applications. Applicants can include business groups, the voluntary sector, community organisations, and local education providers. Bids should build on local insight and knowledge, and align with long-term local growth plans, supporting community renewal and residents most in need.

Up to £220 million of funding will be allocated to successful project bids across the UK and the council will be able to submit a shortlist of projects up to a total value of £3million to Government for approval.

All proposals for the Community Renewal Fund should be submitted to Thurrock Council by noon on Thursday, 20 May 2021 with early submission strongly encouraged.

Applications will then be assessed and a shortlist will be submitted to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) on 18 June 2021 by the council.

The new Fund has been launched to pilot approaches in preparation for the introduction of the Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund in 2022.

All bids must meet a strict set of criteria to be considered for submission. Find out more via this link.