COMMUNITIES across Fenland are being given the chance to bid for cash to help fund highway improvements in their area.

Parish councils, charities or residents groups have until December 21 to apply for funds from Cambridgeshire County Council, to help pay for anything from dropped kerbs to parking controls or improved signage.

Cabinet member for community infrastructure, Councillor Tony Orgee, said: “We know that local people know local needs, so we are giving communities a real say about what goes on in their area.

“This funding presents a real opportunity for them to put forward ideas for improvements to the highway network that will benefit everyone in their area and to work in partnership with the county council – it’s localism in action.”

Applicants can seek up to �10,000 as a county council contribution their scheme, with an expectation that communities will provide 10 per cent or more of the overall cost. The county council is also offering loan facilities for those who wish to spread their contribution over two or three years.

Successful projects will be those providing highway improvements that benefit the local community.

An application form is available online at: www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/transport/localism/Minor+works+funding+opportunities.htm