South Staffordshire is set to see a wave of community enhancements after its District Council approved over £125,000 in government funding for seven vital local projects. At a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, November 18, council members endorsed the allocation of £1.25 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and £146,792 from the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) to be disbursed throughout the district in the 2025/26 fiscal year.
Among the initiatives receiving support is a memorial garden in Cheslyn Hay. The project, led by Cheslyn Hay Parish Council, has been granted £24,220 from the UKSPF to transform Chapel Square into a tranquil space opposite the war memorial. It will feature seating areas for reflection and serve as a venue for community events such as Remembrance Sunday and Christmas tree lighting. The council currently owns the land and will lease it to the parish council to enable the project.
Education and youth development are also priorities, with over £22,000 earmarked for Young Enterprise sessions in schools. This vital program equips young people with practical skills to ease their transition from education into employment. Additionally, the Alzheimer’s Society will receive £4,667 to sustain local dementia support efforts, including community networks, support groups, and assistive technology for residents and their carers.
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The Rural England Prosperity Fund, distributing over £75,000, is fueling several ambitious projects. Notably, Marston Field in Wheaton Aston will see an investment of £25,000 to install an inclusive outdoor gym, accessible play equipment, and a professional bike pump track. This initiative aims to promote physical activity, social engagement, and intergenerational connections through inclusive design, backed by extensive community and expert consultation led by Lapley, Stretton and Wheaton Aston Parish Council.
Essington Rugby Club has been awarded £23,000 to upgrade its facilities focusing on accessibility. Planned improvements include adding disabled parking spaces, ramps for easier building access, and a fully accessible disabled toilet.
Environmental sustainability is also addressed with Swindon Parish Council receiving £5,500 to install solar panels at Swindon Community Centre. This project is part of an ongoing commitment to lowering energy costs and reducing carbon emissions.
Lastly, Cheslyn Hay Parish Council was granted £25,000 to improve the village recreation ground’s entrance. The enhancements will upgrade drainage, resurface pathways, and improve accessibility for wheelchair users, parents with pushchairs, and mobility scooter users. Additional parking facilities will accommodate dog walkers, cyclists, and other visitors.
These targeted investments demonstrate South Staffordshire District Council’s commitment to enhancing quality of life, fostering community spirit, and promoting sustainability across the district.