A small community has improved its access to its riverside village green thanks to a cash boost from the district council.
Hambleton District Councillors awarded West Tanfield Memorial Committee £2,500 for the renovation of the Marmion Tower Steps from their ‘Making a Difference’ awards.
The funding stream – now in its second year – was established for schemes that ‘make a difference’ to Hambleton communities. Each of the five market towns and the surrounding areas – Northallerton, Stokesley, Thirsk, Easingwold and Bedale – takes £25,000 with elected councillors choosing which schemes can be helped.
“The steps leading from the tower down to the river were in a dangerous state and in need of renovating to prevent a serious accident,” said Ward Member, Councillor David Webster, who supported the project.
“The renovation has not only enhanced a lovely river walk but has improved the access for the elderly and those less mobile down to the river.”
Cash for the scheme comes from an ongoing cost saving exercise by the council that members have agreed to reinvest in the community. Each scheme must meet one of the council’s key priorities – supporting economic growth, improving health and wellbeing, improving access to services and supporting a changing population. And each must show that there is community involvement and represents value for money.