National Grid launches consultation to help shape £30m community fund for Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex
Funding worth more than £30 million could support projects across Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex, delivering lasting benefits for communities hosting new electricity infrastructure.
Residents, businesses and community organisations invited to help shape how community funding linked to Norwich to Tilbury could be used.
Residents invited to take part in two webinars to learn more about the fund and how to have your say.
National Grid is inviting communities across Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex to help shape how community funding linked to the proposed Norwich to Tilbury project could be delivered should the project receive development consent.
A survey has been launched marking the start of a programme of engagement designed to ensure people have a say in funding priorities, helping to shape a fund that reflects what matters most to people locally.
In line with Government guidance on community funds for new electricity transmission infrastructure, Norwich to Tilbury is expected to provide over £30 million in funding for communities across the region.
National Grid is now seeking feedback from residents, businesses, community groups and local organisations on the issues that matter most to them and where they believe funding could make the biggest difference.
Potential areas for investment could include improving community facilities, enhancing green spaces, supporting skills and employment opportunities, and initiatives that improve physical and mental wellbeing.
To help people learn more about the proposed fund and how to help shape it, National Grid is holding two online webinars on 22 July from 6pm to 7pm and 29 July from 12pm to 1pm. The sessions will provide an overview of the proposed community fund programme and give participants the chance to ask questions.
Simon Pepper, Project Director for Norwich to Tilbury, said:
"Norwich to Tilbury is a project that would play a vital role in strengthening the electricity network and supporting the UK's transition to cleaner, more secure, home-grown energy. We believe communities hosting this infrastructure should also share in its benefits for years to come."
"Over the coming months, we will be giving people across Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex an opportunity to influence how the community fund could support the places where they live and work, starting with the survey we are launching today. We want to hear directly from local people about where this funding could make the greatest difference and leave a lasting positive impact."
Emma Turner, Head of Socioeconomic and Community Benefits, said:
"This is an important opportunity to ensure major energy infrastructure projects deliver lasting benefits for the areas that host them. We’re working closely with communities and stakeholders to help ensure this funding supports projects that make a real difference locally and create a lasting positive impact across the region."
"By understanding local priorities, we can help ensure funding supports projects that reflect community needs and deliver meaningful outcomes for local people."
The fund will be delivered in two parts: a local fund providing grants to local projects and causes, and a strategic fund, designed to support broader regional priorities. This approach is intended to ensure funding priorities are shaped by local feedback, with transparent decision-making and independent oversight of how funding is allocated. The funding would become available if the project receives development consent and construction begins.
Residents, community organisations and businesses can take part in the survey by visiting https://www.nationalgrid.com/electricity-transmission/network-and-infrastructure/infrastructure-projects/norwich-to-tilbury. The survey is the first stage of engagement to help shape the community fund, with further opportunities for communities to provide feedback planned after the project’s planning examination has closed.