COMMUNITY projects and organisations across the region are being invited to bid for a share oif £15 million to be distributed across good causes by DP World, operators of the London Gateway port on the Thames at Stanford-le-Hope and Corringham.

The logistics giant has announced the funding after entering into agreements with its new occupants at London Gateway Logistics Park – part of the Thames Freeport tax zone – to fund a joint levy that will be distributed to promote community projects, social infrastructure and skills training in the area.

The expected £15 million raised will be spread over the next five years.

DP World is currently engaging with the community to identify suitable projects, and those selected will include community initiatives, social infrastructure and skills and education programmes in conjunction with schools and colleges.

UK chief financial officer at DP World Alan Shaoul.

UK chief financial officer at DP World Alan Shaoul said: "DP World exists to make the world's trade flow better, changing what's possible for the customers and the communities we serve globally.

"Depending on how many new businesses move to London Gateway, we believe the total amount raised will be in the region of £15 million over the next five years.

"We aim to invest the funds in projects which support the economic regeneration of the Thames Estuary, Thurrock and neighbouring boroughs."

"For ten years DP World in the UK has been supporting local causes such as Little Haven's Hospice, Meningitis Now, the South Essex Wildlife Hospital and STEM teaching for South Essex schoolchildren, as well as our award-winning apprenticeship scheme. We are excited that this fund will allow us to increase our level of community investment significantly while helping to address longstanding skills challenges.

"We shall be looking to partner with around a dozen projects which will make a real difference to local people's lives."

Individuals supporting a community project which they would like to put forward for consideration for the fund should email [email protected]