Multi-million pound funding pot opens for community infrastructure projects across the Cotswold district

The latest CIL bidding round opens today (3 August) and focuses on larger strategic infrastructure projects. CIL funding is generated through charges on new developments and is used to invest in infrastructure that supports local people, including transport schemes, community facilities, public spaces and other projects.  

Of the funding available, £470,000 has been allocated for strategic climate and ecological emergency infrastructure projects. Any unallocated funding will be carried forward, alongside additional CIL income generated from future development. 

The Council has recently reviewed and strengthened its bidding process to make it clearer and more robust for applicants, with updated guidance and application documents now available. 

Recent projects supported through CIL funding include the installation of a 3G sports pitch in Fairford, new cycle parking along the Cotswold National Cycle Network, and essential roof repairs at Redesdale Hall in Moreton-in-Marsh. 

Councillor Juliet Layton, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning at Cotswold District Council, said: 

"Community Infrastructure Levy funding plays an important role in helping us invest in the facilities, spaces, and infrastructure that communities need as our district grows. We've already seen the positive impact it can have through projects that support grassroots sport, active travel, and valued community buildings. 

"We encourage eligible organisations with ambitious projects that will deliver long-term benefits for local communities to start thinking about how this funding could help bring their plans forward. We want to hear from projects that will make a lasting difference for residents and help meet future needs across the Cotswolds." 

While this funding round is aimed at larger strategic projects, organisations with smaller local schemes may wish to explore opportunities through Neighbourhood CIL funding where available. 

The bidding round closes on 31 October 2026. Applications will be reviewed by officers before recommendations are presented to Cabinet in January 2027. 

The Cotswold District Strategic Infrastructure Fund is intended to support major providers, such as Gloucestershire County Council (including Education and Highways), the National Health Service, and the Environment Agency and other eligible organisations that deliver strategic infrastructure for the public. The fund is not open to private individuals or profit-making organisations, with exceptions for organisations providing public transport and utilities. All applications must request a minimum of £25,000. 

CIL funding runs alongside a separate bidding process for the Council's Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspaces (SANG) Fund. 

For more information, guidance documents and application forms, visit cotswold.gov.uk/community-infrastructure-levy/ or email [email protected].