UK (Commonwealth Union) – Government funding has been allocated to support the sustainability of 45 cherished establishments across the United Kingdom. These include pubs, museums, and sports clubs, all of which have received crucial financial assistance to ensure their continued existence for future generations.
With a total funding amount exceeding £12.3 million, these beloved venues situated in villages, towns, and cities will be empowered to operate under community ownership, for the benefit of the community itself.
Thanks to the recent injection of funds from the government’s Community Ownership Fund, these institutions will now be under the stewardship of dedicated community organizations.
Notably, among the projects receiving support is the reconstruction of a historic Yorkshire railway bridge in urgent need of repair. This bridge spans Bridgehouse Beck, connecting the areas of Keighley and Oxenhope. The allocated £1 million will not only safeguard the structural integrity of the bridge but also preserve a popular tourist rail line, serving over 250,000 passengers annually. Furthermore, this investment will enhance the local transportation infrastructure, thereby fostering continued economic growth in the region. The original bridge, dating back to 1867, has been a prominent backdrop in numerous films and television series, including the iconic 1970 production “The Railway Children.”
David Pearson, the Coordinator for External Finance & Resources at the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway Preservation Society, expressed his delight, indicating that they are thrilled to have received this funding, which will be dedicated to the comprehensive reconstruction of Bridge 27 on the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, as the bridge holds a central position within the railway, located in the heart of Haworth village.
“It means that the long-term survival of train services on the railway is ensured and means everything to our railway, our villages and our people,” he added.
Jacob Young, Minister for Levelling Up, said, “Our priority is to support communities and deliver opportunities right across the country, which is why we’re investing £12.3m to secure the future of cherished community institutions.”
