If you’ve an idea to improve your neighbourhood now is the time to propose it to be in with a chance of getting it funded. Each year money from the ‘Community Infrastructure Levy’ is made available to improve our streets, parks, green spaces and community buildings.
 
Decisions are made by local councillors, working with their communities. This year Area Committee 5, the one including Bedminster and Southville, will have about £67,000 to allocate. It won’t change the world, but it could improve your neighbourhood.
 
Usually, there would be a public meeting coordinated by Action Greater Bedminster. With pandemic restrictions the process is going online. If you want to put an idea in contact them at greaterbedminster@gmail.com by 15 March 2021. More information, including guidance and a proposal form is at: www.bristol.gov.uk/people-communities/funding-local-projects.
 
Be aware that works needing the Highways Department are off the list this time as they already have too long a backlog of work to do. Low-cost projects are more likely to be successful than big ones. Projects in green spaces, trees and planting, along with steps towards a ‘Liveable Neighbourhood’ and small community building projects are all possible.