RESIDENTS in Chadwell St Mary have a chance to bring their great ideas for improving the local community to life.

The Chadwell in Action: Small Sparks Fund allows residents to apply for up to £250 to support small projects or activities.

It forms part of the wider Chadwell in Action programme, shaped by local conversations about what matters most to the community, and supported by Thurrock Council and Thurrock CVS.

Chadwell in Action has already allocated £15,000 to support initiatives that local people said were important to them.

This includes support for a community garden project, initially focused on transforming the garden behind Chadwell Library. Other funded projects include new seating for the Orsett Heath play area; additional youth provision and community activities at Chadwell flats and a coffee machine for Chadwell Library. 

Sanni, a resident who is one of the leading figures in the community garden project, said: "We are committed and dedicated to Chadwell community and environmental stewardship, through collaboration and shared responsibilities within the community. This is as an ideal expression of long-term investment in community growth and sustainability."

Cllr John Kent, cabinet member for sustainability, art, culture and heritage, said: "Chadwell in Action is an inspiring, grassroots project that gives residents a genuine voice in what is happening in their community and enables them to play an active part in bringing about the improvements they would like to see.

"I am delighted by the progress already being made towards the priorities identified through these conversations and the action plan for Chadwell St Mary, published in June 2025." 

As part of its Neighbourhoods programme, the council now plans to roll out this approach to other parts of the borough, engaging with residents to co-create plans for their neighbourhoods.

The Chadwell in Action: Small Sparks Fund was launched last week (Thursday 15 January) in the Community Room at George Tilbury House in Chadwell with residents, local community groups and ward councillors in attendance.

To be eligible for funding, projects should be based in Chadwell St Mary, benefit residents in the area, and support at least one of the six community priorities for Chadwell:

• Activities for young people and community events
• Health and wellbeing
• Better engagement and communication
• Green spaces and environment
• Community safety
• Public transport and road safety

Applications to the fund must be matched £ for £ by community contributions, such as residents' time and involvement.

Alternatively, you can pick up a form from Chadwell Library, scan and email your completed form to [email protected]

For any enquiries about the application process, contact Thurrock CVS on 01375 389890.

If anyone would like to get involved with the Chadwell in Action Steering Group email [email protected].