Watford’s Neighbourhood Grant is now open for applications for community project funding of up to £50,000.

The pot, administered annually by Watford Borough Council, is filled from a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) paid for by developers on new housing developments.

The idea behind the funding is to support projects in Watford which ensure sustainable growth benefits to residents and help deal with the impacts brought about by new developments.

This year, community groups and organisations bringing positive changes to the area can apply for part of the £300,000 in total up for grabs.

The council is offering up to £5,000 to kick-start new or additional activities or programmes, and up to £50,000 for more substantial physical infrastructure projects.

As part of the process, residents will get the chance to support any of the shortlisted projects later this year.

Paul Stacey, associate director of environment and communities at Watford Borough Council, said: "We were really pleased with the success of the Neighbourhood Grant programme last year.

"The projects demonstrated the incredible creativity, dedication, and passion within the community.

"We are eagerly awaiting the creative and impactful proposals that will come forward in this new round of funding, and we look forward to seeing the positive changes that will emerge."

Last year, the Neighbourhood Grant financed 17 community projects, each with different amounts of funding.

The projects ranged from environmental conservation to youth empowerment, arts and culture, sports development, and social welfare.

Those interested in applying for this year's fund can visit watford.gov.uk/neighbourhoodgrant24 for full information concerning the application process, eligibility criteria, and guidelines.

The application window opened yesterday (June 17) and runs until September 13, with all submissions undergoing review by a funding panel.

For any further details about the Neighbourhood Grant scheme and the latest funding round, interested parties are encouraged to visit the aforementioned website or reach out via NCIL@watford.gov.uk.