WITH Hinkley getting the green light, communities in Sedgemoor and West Somerset are urged to apply for grants from a £7.2million funding pot.

The fund was secured from EDF Energy after West Somerset Council gave planning permission for the site at Hinkley Point to be prepared for the C station development. It is known as the Community Impact Mitigation Fund (CIM).

It is administered by West Somerset Council in partnership with Sedgemoor District Council, Somerset County Council and EDF Energy.

CIM-funded projects can be large or small – but must be directly linked to impacts from Hinkley Point C and seek to improve the economic, social or environmental wellbeing of affected communities.

Projects that seek to help communities benefit from the positive opportunities offered by the development are also being encouraged.

Parish councils, Town council, community organisations, sports clubs and voluntary groups are all welcome to apply. Small grants are available up to £1000 with larger grants also available for those applicants that can successfully demonstrate how their project meets the CIM Fund’s criteria.

Cllr Peter Downing, portfolio holder for infrastructure, from Sedgemoor District Council, said: “We know there will be challenges ahead, as there are with any large development projects, but there will equally be opportunities that we don’t want local residents, clubs and groups to missing out on.”

Cllr Mandy Chilcott, West Somerset Council’s lead member for resources and chair of the Planning Obligations Board, said: “We have already seen some really great community projects funded through the CIM Fund which will help mitigate the impacts of the construction of Hinkley Point C.

“These projects and facilities will help our area during the build and leave a lasting legacy for many years to come. As EDF Energy’s on-site activity increases, it is important that communities know that the CIM Fund is available to help address the impacts of the project.

"Our teams are ready and waiting to help, advise and guide people and we look forward to receiving applications which build on the good work done so far.

“We welcome any group with an idea for a project to come forward and details can be found by visiting www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk/CIM to review the CIM Fund’s criteria, obtain contact details and discuss submitting an expression of interest.

Staff at both West Somerset Council and Sedgemoor District Council are available to work with groups to support them through the application process and advise on eligibility.”

Projects already supported by the fund include £600,000 towards the redevelopment of the Victory Hall in Stogursey £600,000, and £200,000 to The Sydenham and Bower Health and Wellbeing Group towards the revamp of Coronation Park on Parkway in Bridgwater.