Colchester City Council is allocating £1.9 million from our £2 million Community Asset Fund to support much‑needed improvements to well‑used and much‑loved community facilities across the city. This funding is focused on strengthening the local spaces that make a real difference to people’s lives.
Created in 2025, the Fund is designed to support and future‑proof the places where communities meet, learn, play and support one another. These facilities play a vital role in connecting residents, reducing isolation and helping neighbourhoods thrive.
Strong response from local organisations
The Fund received a high level of interest from organisations, charities, venues and community groups across Colchester, with 16 applications submitted. Following a thorough and structured assessment process, 11 projects have been awarded funding to improve and enhance their buildings.
Where the funding is going
The investment spans a range of community spaces, from long‑established village halls to new facilities in areas without enough dedicated meeting places. Funding will support essential repairs, improved accessibility, renewable energy installations and measures that ensure buildings are sustainable and fit for the future. A full list of funded projects can be found below:
- Chappel and Wakes Colne Village Hall, £57,177
- Claudius Road Project, £499,999
- Greenstead Community Centre, £53,700
- Heart of Greenstead project, £500,000
- Holy Trinity Church, £50,000
- Kingsland Church in Stanway £75,000
- Langham Community Centre, £360,000
- Mede Way Play Park, £50,000
- Mersea Island Scout Hut, £60,000
- St Stephens Church, £113,000
- Tollgate Hall in Stanway, £55,000
Every allocation from the Fund has gone through a clear, transparent and rigorous assessment process, ensuring resources are focused where they will have the greatest impact and deliver strong value for money.
Why the Community Asset Fund matters
Community spaces sit at the heart of local life. They help residents stay connected and supported, create opportunities for social activity, and offer safe and welcoming environments for groups of all ages. By investing in essential improvements and safeguarding these buildings for the long term, we’re ensuring every neighbourhood has access to the facilities that make community life possible.
Part of a bigger commitment
Alongside the projects announced today, the Council has also supported other community facilities through alternative funding sources, including current and future S106 contributions. These include:
- North East Essex Muslim Association in the city centre £50,000
- Stanway Lakelands Centre, £150,000
- Jansma Park in Stanway, £138,745
Together, the 14 funded projects represent just over £2.2million of targeted investment in voluntary, community and parish spaces, the neighbourhood hubs at the centre of community life.
Cllr Jocelyn Law, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Public Protection, said: “This fund is making a direct difference to the places our residents rely on most. By investing in community centres and village halls, we're supporting the vital local groups, volunteers and services that help people feel connected, supported and proud of where they live. These projects show our commitment to strengthening communities, tackling inequalities and making sure every resident has access to warm, welcoming and sustainable spaces.”
Cllr David King, Leader of the Council, added: “This investment demonstrates our continued commitment to strengthening the places where community life thrives. By supporting these centres, we’re helping to ensure that every resident has access to warm, inclusive and sustainable spaces that bring people together. These projects show what can be achieved when we work closely with our communities and invest in the infrastructure that matters most to them.”
Next steps
Subject to our standard call-in period on decisions, we will now complete standard due‑diligence checks before issuing grant agreements. These include confirming organisational status, ensuring projects meet procurement requirements, and carrying out financial and Subsidy Control assessments. Once complete, funding agreements will be finalised and delivery can begin. A £125,000 reserve will be retained as contingency for any unforeseen needs across the programme.