A solar power generator and a power bank are among the new equipment bought through a grant awarded to Chawton House, near Alton.
We awarded £10,102 from our Rural Grant scheme - part of the council’s Grow Up! programme - to help improve Dyers Barn.
The grant has been used to purchase a solar power generator and power bank, folding wooden chairs, lighting, signage, security, and Wi-Fi.
The upgrade to the barn will make it an ideal venue for functions including events, weddings and private hire functions.
The Rural Grants are distributed through Grow Up!, an ambitious and wide-reaching programme to support our rural economy, reconnect people with countryside and provide skills, careers and opportunities for our residents.
The upgrade of Dyers Barn was celebrated at a Rural Business Network event hosted there on 25 May 2024, where EHDC handed over a plaque to display at the barn.
Around 30 businesses and organisations attended the network to hear from speakers about accessing funding and finance, including Graham Thompson, of management consultants Consultician.
Katie Childs, CEO of Chawton House, said: “The generator and power bank will make a huge difference to us, because it means we can run more events throughout the year – and the new furniture makes the space more inviting and appropriate for the many uses the barn can host.”
Find out more about Chawton House
Cllr Robert Mocatta, portfolio holder for Regeneration & Prosperity said: “I am proud that we have been able to support Chawton House with this project.
“The work was funded through the Rural England Prosperity Fund, which is part of the central government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The funding will enable Chawton House to bring in additional opportunity and revenue, adding value to residents, community groups, and businesses locally.”
The Rural Grant scheme will reopen for applications in summer 2024, and for more information please sign up to our business bulletins on our website.
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The Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) programme - the Rural Grant - prioritises projects that deliver the greatest economic, environmental and social benefits. They are part of the council’s Grow Up! programme.
This project is funded by the UK Government through the UKSPF
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.