LOCAL groups and individuals from the Garnock Valley are being given an opportunity to secure much-needed funds – with over £30,000 up for grabs.

North Ayrshire Council has confirmed that the Garnock Valley will be the second local area taking part when the hugely-successful Participatory Budgeting events return again this year.

These events were first rolled out in 2016 – across the Council’s six localities - and proved hugely successful with a raft of groups receiving significant sums of money.

And the process is underway in the Garnock Valley – culminating in ‘Decision Day’ on Saturday, March 10. Those wishing to apply are invited to bid for up to £1,500 from a total pot of £25,382.

Applications should demonstrate that funding would help improve at least one of the following in the Garnock Valley area: promoting health and activity, bringing people together and promoting positive mental health and wellbeing.

An additional £5,000 is available from North Ayrshire Green Health Partnership for bids of up to £1,000. Bids should help improve nature-based activities in the Garnock Valley area (separate application available).

Closing date for applications is February 21 at 5pm. Those who are on the shortlist will be invited to Decision Day at Dalry Primary School, from 10.30-1pm, where they will make a bid for funding in a ‘marketplace’ format.

Local residents are invited to the event to decide which projects to fund.

They will vote for the projects that they believe will most benefit their community.

Voting is open to anyone aged eight and over who lives, works or volunteers in the area.

To get your application email participatorybudgeting@north-ayrshire.gov.uk or phoning 01294 604612.

Councillor Louise McPhater, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “We welcome applications from anyone and will deal with each individually and on its own merits.

Good luck!”

Drop-in sessions will take place at Beith Library: Tuesday, February 13, 2pm - 4.30pm Kilbirnie Library: Thursday, February 15, 2pm - 5pm Dalry Library: Friday, February 16, 10am - 12:30pm