Shared Prosperity Fund - Investing in our communities

Erewash Borough Council successfully bid for a £2.8m share of the Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund for community and business projects over the next two years.

Council Executive approved receipt of the Shared Prosperity Fund – which will be invested in communities - at a meeting in February 2023. The projects will include:

  • 3G pitch project at Rutland Sports Park: A third generation artificial grass pitch will be implemented to promote engagement with sport.
  • Bennerley Viaduct Study: To establish options to improve access to Bennerley Viaduct.
  • Golden Hello Scheme: This aims to encourage new businesses opening in empty shops by providing a grant for quality new signage and marketing.
  • Proposed Ilkeston Nature Reserve: Enhancement of the wildlife value and public amenity at the former Pewit Golf Course and Manor Floods LNR, including substantial tree planting to help address the impacts of climate change 
  • Cultural Events Programme: Increased awareness of and engagement with the Erewash Museum through a programme of enhanced events
  • An enhanced community grant scheme;
  • A community carbon grant for energy efficiency improvements for eligible households,
  • A manufacturing Research & Development grant for local manufacturing businesses.
  • A project to replace the existing play equipment at West Park, Long Eaton with a significantly upgraded play area at the park in Long Eaton
  • A Visit Erewash Campaign to promote recreational use of the Erewash countryside.
  • Community Shuttle: A vehicle to carry passengers up Bath Street to improve the accessibility of Bath Street for people with walking difficulties. The funding for this project has now been allocated elsewhere. See this latest news item for more information.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.