Councillor Kim Carsok has been working with fantastic volunteers in Tacolneston, Forncett, Hapton & Tharston and Wacton to help them get grant funding to support community projects.
“We’re lucky to have so many people giving up their time to improve things for others around here.” Kim reports back. “And I’m massively enjoying playing my part in being their advocate through the official channels to get vital funding.”
It’s a partnership that’s seen small but important improvements made in each of the parishes in the Forncett Ward, including:
1) Disabled toilet at Tacolneston Village Hall
“Paul and Tim did a great job working up a plan with architects for a disabled toilet here. I was proud to present an application to the Community Action Fund panel for them, securing an £11,000 grant to get the toilet built quickly, so more people can join in activities at the hall.”
2) Hapton Community Field garden and play equipment
“Parish councillors have already transformed the field. I was able to help secure a £25,000 Pride & Place grant for their new memorial & sensory garden, plus £10,000 for the play tunnel and giant mound slide. New entrance handrails means this is now truly a place for all generations.”
3) Shed for Friends of Forncett St Peter Primary School
“Michelle from the Friends got in contact and I was able to use a £1000 Member’s Ward Grant for a shed, freezer and shelving to support PTA fundraising events.”
4) Solar panels for Forncett & Tacolneston halls
“Working with parish councils and hall committees, each building has secured nearly £20,000 for EV charging points and energy bill-lowering solar panels.”
5) Wacton Books & Buses hub for bus shelter
“The parish council got in touch for help to fund new shelving, to create a book exchange at the bus shelter. I was able to assist with a £300 grant.”
Careful Conservative management of finances at South Norfolk Council has meant councillors of all parties have access to grant budgets to spend on local priorities.
“None of this is just doling out taxpayer money on pet projects or short-term handouts. Volunteers have identified real opportunities, put in the hard yards and come up with affordable and feasible plans, which the council can invest in for the benefit of future generations.” Kim concludes.
