INNOVATIVE local groups with ideas for events that will draw people to Bridgwater can now seek grant funding to bring them to life.

The Animating Bridgwater Grant has been made available after the town secured £23.2 million in funding from the government under the Town Deal.

A total of 11 projects will benefit from the government funding, which is centred around three investment themes: ‘unlocking growth’, ‘places and spaces’ and ‘diversifying town centre offer and intilling civic pride’.

The final three projects received government approval last week. 

A total of £20,000 has been made available in 2023/24 for new events that will bring people to Bridgwater and “animate the new and old spaces” in the town. 

Organisations can secure between £500 and £10,000 under the scheme.

A notice on the Bridgwater Town Council website says: “Bridgwater has long been known for its incredible events such as carnival and Bridgwater Fair.

“With areas such as Northgate, Brewery Field and the planned redevelopments, the town has never been better placed to invite residents and visitors back to its streets for both entertainment and culture.

“As part of Somerset Council’s Town Deal funding from government to regenerate Bridgwater town centre, funding has been allocated for a small grant programme to create new and exciting events in Bridgwater.

“Do you have an idea for an event in Bridgwater? Do you want to be a part of breathing life into the spaces of Bridgwater? Could you create something special in the heart of Bridgwater itself?”

It adds: “We are expecting these grants to be competitive as our budget is small with the average amount granted being £3,500. The grant budget for 23/24 £20,000.

“However. further funding is available for future years, if you have an idea for next year, please still provide an expression of interest.”

The proposed events must make place within Bridgwater Town, promote the town as an attractive place to live, work and visit, encourage community engagement and improve residents and visitors’ enjoyment of Bridgwater.

Projects that are interested in applying for funding can submit an expression of interest form by visiting forms.office.com/e/uVC43ueR2Z.