Investing £327k in nine local projects through UK Shared Prosperity Fund
2 April 2025
We have confirmed the allocation of £327,146 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) for the 2025/26 financial year.
This funding will be directed towards projects that strengthen community facilities, support businesses, and improve skills and employment opportunities across the district.
The funding, awarded by the government in December 2024, will be shared across nine projects designed to address local priorities and ensure long-term benefits for residents and businesses in the New Forest.
Cllr Derek Tipp, Portfolio Holder for Planning and Economy, said:
"As with previous allocation of UKSPF, projects supported will focus on the priority areas of communities and place, supporting local businesses, or people and skills. A significant portion of the funding will be used to enhance community facilities, improving public spaces and ensuring local infrastructure remains accessible and fit for purpose."
Six of the projects focus on improving skills and business support at a local level. Three of these are a continuation of existing projects delivered through the 2022-25 UKSPF - New Forest Apprenticeship Hub, start up support programme, and New Forest HEAT Project. The other three are new projects - Digital Skills Initiative for Business & Community, NEET Support Programme, and business growth accelerator programme.
The remaining three projects align with the communities and place priorities and include the replacement of public litter bins, repairs to Hythe Promenade, and the replacement of public noticeboards across the New Forest.
Cllr Derek Tipp, Portfolio Holder for Planning and Economy, said:
"This funding provides an excellent opportunity to invest in projects that make a real difference to our communities and local economy. We are committed to ensuring that the UK Shared Prosperity Fund is used effectively to support businesses, develop skills, and enhance our shared spaces. By working closely with partners and stakeholders, we will maximise the impact of these investments.
"The allocation of this funding comes at a time of significant change for local government, with discussions on devolution and structural reorganisation shaping the future of service delivery in Hampshire. NFDC remains focused on ensuring that any transition maintains high-quality support for businesses and residents while strengthening local decision-making."
Full details about the nine projects funded through the UKSPF can be found on the council's website: UKSPF 25/26 allocations report.
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