Residents invited to apply for funding and help shape the future of Maryport South

Community groups and organisations are being encouraged to apply for a new fund that will help local people have their say on the future of Flimby, Ellenborough and Broughton Moor.

The Maryport South Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board has launched a new Community Engagement Fund, offering grants of up to £1,000 to support local events and activities that bring people together and gather ideas about what matters most to residents.

Maryport South is the electoral ward covering Flimby, Ellenborough and Broughton Moor. The area has secured long-term government investment through the Pride in Place programme, which aims to ensure local people have a direct say in how future funding is invested to improve their communities.

The new fund will support community-led activities such as events, workshops, family activities, community celebrations and other opportunities that encourage local people to connect, share ideas and discuss what they would like to see in their area. Feedback gathered through these activities will be used to help shape the Maryport South Community Investment Plan.

The launch also marks an important milestone for the programme, with the Maryport South Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board now in place. The Board is resident-led, with local people working alongside community organisations and public sector partners to oversee the programme and ensure community voices remain at the heart of decision-making.

Maryport South is already home to many strengths, including active community groups, dedicated volunteers, strong local schools, proud local heritage and residents who care deeply about where they live. Pride in Place aims to build on these strengths by ensuring local people play a leading role in identifying priorities and shaping future investment.

Annalee Holliday, Chair of the Maryport South Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board, said:

"This programme is about local people helping to shape the future of their community. We know that residents are passionate about where they live and have great ideas about what could make a difference. Through this fund, we're encouraging local groups to bring people together, start conversations and ensure as many voices as possible are heard. The Community Engagement Fund is the first step in that journey, helping us gather the ideas, experiences and priorities that will shape the Maryport South Community Investment Plan. Once that plan has been developed with local people, larger funding opportunities are expected to become available from autumn and winter 2026 onwards, supporting projects and initiatives that reflect what residents across Flimby, Ellenborough and Broughton Moor want to see in their communities. We want as many people as possible to get involved and help shape the future of the area.”

Markus Campbell-Savours MP for Penrith and Solway, said: “This Pride in Place funding from the Labour Government has the potential to create real change in Flimby, Ellenborough and Broughton Moor. These grants are the first step in a ten-year journey to bring people together and transform the area. I’d encourage anyone with a great idea to get involved.”

Eligible community and voluntary organisations can apply for grants of up to £1,000. Activities must take place by 30 September 2026 and include an opportunity for residents to share their views about the area.

There is no fixed closing date, but organisations are encouraged to apply as early as possible. To find out more and apply, visit: www.maryportsouthprideinplace.org.uk or email hello@maryportsouthprideinplace.org.uk