First Bramford to Twinstead funding round powers local community projects

Community organisations across Suffolk and Essex have been awarded community benefit funding through the first funding round linked to National Grid's Bramford to Twinstead project.

As National Grid progresses plans for vital electricity infrastructure between Bramford and Twinstead, it is also supporting local communities through funding designed to back projects that matter to local residents and create lasting benefits.

The Bramford to Twinstead Community Fund is a multi-year investment of £4.2 million, made up of a Local Fund for grants that directly benefit communities closest to the route and a Strategic Fund to support longer-term local and regional priorities.

Funding has been awarded to New Life Church's Abi's Footprints Baby Bank, which received more than £5,500 to fund a part-time support worker. The role will help deliver free weekly parent, baby and toddler groups and provide home visits to families experiencing child poverty and parental isolation.

St John the Baptist CEVA Primary School PTA has received £19,940 to replace ageing climbing equipment with a new play structure. The project will help create improved outdoor play space for pupils at the school.

Meanwhile, Stour Power Community Energy has been awarded £5,000 to commission a technical feasibility study for a run-of-river hydro project. The study will assess whether a low-impact hydro generation system could supply renewable energy to local homes and businesses.

Funding has also been awarded to Alphamstone Village Hall, which has received nearly £10,000 to install a 14-panel solar photovoltaic system, hybrid inverter and battery storage. The project is expected to help reduce energy costs and support the long-term sustainability of the community facility.

James Dear, Project Director for Bramford to Twinstead, said:

"We're all using more electricity in our everyday lives, and that means we need to invest in the network so it can support homes, businesses and cleaner energy in the years ahead."

"As we progress the Bramford to Twinstead project, we also want to make sure communities closest to the route see real local benefits. We're pleased this funding is supporting organisations making a difference, from helping families and young people to backing more sustainable community spaces and local energy projects."

These are just some of the organisations benefiting from the Bramford to Twinstead community fund, which supports projects that deliver positive social, environmental and economic outcomes in communities close to the project.

Pictured at New Life Church's Abi's Footprints Baby Bank are David, Lyn, Christine, Sara and Andrew.