AN AWARD of £13,000 from European Energy UK Ltd’s Developer Contribution Fund is set to support community improvements in Marksbury.

This fund was specifically created to support projects and initiatives that benefit the Marksbury community, in connection with Marksbury Plain Solar Farm.

It is part of European Energy UK Ltd’s commitment to supporting the communities surrounding its projects, ensuring that local areas benefit directly from renewable energy developments.

Lisa Wilson, project communications manager said: "We are delighted to support Marksbury Village Hall through our Developer Contribution Fund. It’s important to us that the local community shares in the benefits of Marksbury Solar Farm, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact this funding will have.”

The funding has improved accessibility at Marksbury Village Hall, including new disabled and pushchair access to the village’s only playground and to the refurbished lower ground floor, now renamed ‘Valley View’.

A gently sloping path now links the playground to the lower floor, making both areas fully accessible for wheelchair users, pushchairs, and young children.

While building works were underway, a local childminder noticed the improvements and contacted the Village Hall to find out more about the newly accessible space. Her enquiry led to the establishment of Little Lavenders, the first village playgroup in over 20 years.

Operating on a long-term agreement in Valley View, the playgroup provides childcare for local residents and contributes to Village Hall income, allowing the committee to plan further improvements for the community. This development demonstrates how small community investments can create new opportunities and benefits for local residents.

The European Energy UK Developer Contribution Fund forms part of European Energy’s wider commitment to supporting local initiatives and strengthening relationships with the communities surrounding its renewable energy sites, ensuring that the benefits of these developments are shared locally.