Communities in B&NES will benefit from a £59,000 funding boost to help address local needs under Lib Dem budget plans for the coming year.

Under the proposals, each Councillor will have access to a £1,000 “empowerment fund” which they will be able to use to support local projects and improve residents’ lives.

The Lib Dem-run Council reinstated the scheme in 2019 and 2020 and are proposing to continue in 2021 with additional funds. Councillors work with residents, community and voluntary organisations, and Parish and Town Councils to agree projects.

Bathavon South Councillor Matt McCabe commented: “It’s brilliant news that this scheme is being made available again going forwards.

“It means that we can work together to get local projects or improvements in place quickly and make a real difference.

“Over the last 15 months, my ward colleague and I have been able to allocate portions of our funding to help Wellow Parlour shop reduce plastic use, to tackle speeding, to improve play areas and to support local community organisations and Parish Councils.”

Residents should contact their ward Councillors to make suggestions for the ward empowerment funds. Proposals should align with the Council’s corporate priorities.