The fund can support local transport schemes and is being offered as a Kent Bus Service Improvement plan initiative supported by National Bus Strategy funding provided by UK Government.
The council has provided grants for community transport schemes for a number of years but this year KCC has been able to make additional funding available from its National Bus Strategy award for groups to bid for to try to help communities impacted by changes to their bus service or with another local transport need.
“We are delighted to again offer the chance for community groups and local councils to bid for funding to support their communities and are grateful for UK Government’s support in enabling us to do this.”
Kent County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, Neil Baker, said: “We are delighted to again offer the chance for community groups and local councils to bid for funding to support their communities and are grateful for UK Government’s support in enabling us to do this.
“Since the pandemic these sorts of schemes can be increasingly valuable while the bus network continues to recover in the face of continued challenges.
“Those who are successful at bidding for funding will receive a one-off grant to introduce or enhance local transport schemes in their communities.”
Roads Minister Richard Holden said: “People up and down the country deserve a modern, reliable, and affordable public transport system. That is why we have allocated Kent County Council with over £39 million to boost its bus services.
“Supporting the council with delivering the £450,000 Community Transport Grant is fantastic for local charities, residents’ groups, and parish and town councils, who will now have a real opportunity to help improve local bus services in Kent.”
Applications are now open and should be submitted before the deadline by 18th December 2023.
Visit www.kent.gov.uk/communitytransportgrant to find out more about the Community Transport Grant scheme and how to apply.
ENDS
