Communities benefit from council’s multi-million pound funding bids
Final projects are well underway in the final months of a multi-million-pound four-year scheme.
Following three years of successful delivery of £4.8 million worth of schemes and initiatives through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council is in the final phase of spending a further £1.5 million in the area.
The 25 projects earmarked for delivery this year include six new initiatives focused on creative industries and digital innovation.
These include the Honey Box project, which has helped secure Arts Council funding for grassroots music development and will culminate in a Music Awards Show at the New Vic Theatre.
Other highlights include a pilot carbon calculator developed by CyberKiln, student placements through partnerships with Keele and Staffordshire universities, and a dedicated business advisor appointed through the Staffordshire Growth Hub.
Simon Tagg, Leader of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, said:
Our track record of delivering these projects in the first three years meant we could successfully apply for an extra year of additional funding.
The schemes focus on supporting local businesses, communities and developing skills to make a practical difference to communities.”
The programme has already supported more than 445 businesses, helped 189 entrepreneurs, and reached nearly 1,000 people through business support initiatives.
The programme has also delivered significant community benefits, including the planting of 26,900 trees, improvements to Clough Hall Park, and the creation or enhancement of 14 community facilities.
A new hub has been established offering help to the homeless and those in danger of becoming homeless, while volunteering and community engagement projects have exceeded targets.
Simon Tagg added:
We’ve built strong partnerships across the borough and we’re now seeing the benefits of that collaboration in every corner of Newcastle-under-Lyme and Kidsgrove.”
The Council will continue to receive updates on the delivery of the programme and any future funding beyond March 2026.
A full list of recipients for 2025/26 can be found here.