COMMUNITY groups and businesses across Basingstoke and Deane will be able to benefit from funding as part of borough-wide plans to celebrate Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has launched the Queen’s Jubilee Fund, a new grant scheme to encourage community and voluntary groups and businesses across the borough to host events.

The Platinum Jubilee weekend, including an extended bank holiday, will take place from Thursday, June 2 to Sunday, June 5 and will provide an opportunity for communities across the United Kingdom to come together to celebrate the historic milestone and reflect on The Queen’s 70 years of service.

As part of the new scheme, community organisations will be eligible for grants of up to £500 for single applications and up to £1,000 for joint applications from two or more organisations for events taking place in communities across the borough. The grant scheme will fund events from May to August 2022 to encourage communities to continue celebrations into the summer.

Businesses will also be eligible for grants of up to £1,000 for applications which bring together three or more businesses. Applicants will need to demonstrate that the funding will be used to deliver activities to benefit the high street or town or village centres and not just the individual business applying.

Grants can be used to buy new or additional equipment, to cover the costs of hiring equipment, for entertainment, performances and artists costs and to cover the costs of insurance.

The scheme is now open and the deadline for applications is Friday, April 29. Grants will be available for events and activities that will be delivered between May and August 2022 and will be provided on a first come, first served basis.

To support communities to host events of their own, the council has created guidance for street parties including information on responsibilities and advice on how to organise events safely.

The grant scheme is just one of the ways the council is supporting jubilee celebrations across the borough. Other events and activities being planned include the Mayor’s Big Picnic in War Memorial Park, a creative writing and art project and tree planting as part of The Queen’s Green Canopy project.

The Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane Cllr Onnalee Cubitt said: “The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee provides a fantastic opportunity to bring communities across the borough together to celebrate the achievements, dedication and steadfast service she has demonstrated during the last 70 years.

“Following a difficult period over the past two years, it will be great to see a host of vibrant activities on offer for residents to get involved in throughout Basingstoke and Deane, showcasing the best the borough has to offer.

“We would encourage groups, parishes and businesses to apply to this scheme as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Please get in touch with us if you need any guidance and support when planning your events.”

For more information about the grant scheme, visit basingstoke.gov.uk/queens-jubilee-fund and to find out more about what you need to host a community event, read the council’s street party guidance at basingstoke.gov.uk/streetparties.