For the last few months, communities from right across every corner of the borough have been putting forward ideas that they think will have a positive impact on their area – and almost 170 applications in total came through to the Tak£500+ project.
Three incredible events were then held at different venues across the borough where 142 fantastic ideas were showcased in the hope that members of the public would vote for them to receive funding to bring their ideas to life!
Overall, 3,923 votes were cast by you – residents of this borough – for your favourite projects. This level of participation shows how much people value having a voice in decisions that affect their community. And an amazing 115 projects have received funding to the tune of over £114,000 to carry out their projects for the benefit of their communities!
This was all made possible through the ABC Community Planning Partnership’s ‘TAK£500+ Participatory Budget Fund’ – a project that has enabled local people to decide how public funds are used to address needs in their area. Communities were able to apply for up to £1,000, with local residents deciding which projects should be brought to life!
The variety of successful projects is quite simply amazing and includes projects to support emotional wellbeing, sporting activities for all ages, community gardens, intergenerational initiatives, projects to protect our industrial heritage and so much more!
“This is now the fifth year of the TAK£500+ project, and it’s fantastic to see it going from strength to strength,” said the Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Mary O’Dowd.
“It’s been great to see so many local people getting involved – not only by putting forward their ideas, but also by coming along and casting their votes. The range of projects and the thought behind them really show the pride people have in their communities and their desire to make a positive difference.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing these projects come to life over the coming months and the impact they will have right across the borough.”
All ideas were based around the ‘Take 5 Steps to Wellbeing’ – five simple steps to help maintain and improve your wellbeing on a daily basis.
Find out more about Tak£500+ ad view the list of successful projects here: https://www.armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/take500plus/
