Full steam ahead for council's Civic Pride Investment Fund
Money from a new council fund is enabling a charitable trust to improve access to train rides within a country park while helping a community group to enhance a tributary stream of the River Trent.
Apedale Valley Light Railway (AVLR) and the Friends of Lyme Brook are the latest beneficiaries of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council’s Civic Pride Investment Fund.
The fund – containing £22,000 for 2025/26 – invites local groups and organisations to apply for small grants to help them deliver community events and other positive schemes that contribute to a cleaner, safer and friendlier borough. It complements the council’s successful Civic Pride initiative which involves days of action, in collaboration with partners and residents, to enhance neighbourhoods and increase feelings of pride and belonging.
The Moseley Railway Trust – which operates a narrow-gauge railway at Apedale Community Country Park using historic steam and diesel locomotives – is receiving £500 to provide free return travel for carers visiting with disabled passengers during the 2026 season. Rides and special events operate on a 15-minute route every Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays from Easter until October, with Santa Specials running during December.
Meanwhile, the Friends of Lyme Brook is being awarded £290 to recruit new members and establish a wildflower meadow at the Lyme Valley Parkway. The group meets on the first Saturday of each month to carry out litter picking, river fly sampling and water quality testing. The funding will be used to buy waterproof posters and hire a rotavator.
Council Leader Simon Tagg said:
The latest successful applications continue to show the strength of community spirit here in Newcastle-under-Lyme. These projects reflect the dedication of local people who want to improve the places they live, work and care about. We’re proud to support them through the Civic Pride Investment Fund and look forward to seeing the positive difference they will make in our neighbourhoods.”
Earlier grants are contributing towards the development of a baby bank in Newcastle, an extension of a community orchard in Audley, a new community garden in Bradwell and improvements to an allotment in Chesterton.
Dr. Mick Salt, a trustee of the Moseley Railway Trust, added:
As a charity, we rely on revenue from fares to sustain the operation of the railway and to support the upcoming museum.
We’re delighted to receive this generous grant from the Civic Pride Investment Fund which will help with the sustainability of our operations. We transport several disabled passengers during the season: ensuring they can be supported by carers, at no extra cost, will improve the inclusivity of our railway and access to the wider country park. I would like to thank the council for their help.”
The deadline for the last round of 2025/26 funding is Wednesday, 31 December inclusive. More information is available on the council’s website.