COMMUNITY projects could be in line for a huge cash injection after the district council made half a million pounds available to help important work across Uttlesford.

The �500,000 Jubilee Fund, named to commemorate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee year, will be split into two pots - �250,000 for bids from town and parish councils and �250,000 for bids from voluntary bodies and community groups, such as village hall committees, sports clubs, community shops, community associations, or play and recreation clubs and groups.

The money comes from the district’s council’s New Homes Bonus grant from central government, money paid to local authorities based on the rate of new home building completed in the area. It is the second year that NHB has been paid.

Interested groups are therefore being urged to contact Uttlesford District Council’s community development officer, Sue Hayden, on 01799 510563 or e-mail shayden@uttlesford.gov.uk to apply for financial support for projects in their area.

Projects must be completed before March 20, 2013. However, if the project is under way and cannot be completed for reasons beyond the applicant’s control, consideration will be given for an extension on an individual basis (provided sufficient notice of delay is given to the council). The minimum grant is �1,000 and the maximum is �10,000.

Cllr Robert Chambers, cabinet member for finance and administration, said: “This scheme includes all parish councils unlike last year and voluntary organisations have an opportunity to get a grant however small or large they are. I hope as many of you as possible will put forward your schemes to help the community of Uttlesford.”

Completed application forms should be sent with all the relevant documents to Sue Hayden, Community Development Officer, Uttlesford District Council, Council Offices, London Road, Saffron Walden CB11 4ER. The closing date for receipt of applications is midday on July 16, 2012.

For further information, see the council’s website at uttlesford.gov.uk and click on the ‘Community and Leisure’ link on the homepage.