839,000 boost for community projects, sports and events in Ashton

More than £839,000 is being invested in Ashton through three new Ashton Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board grant schemes.

Local community groups, charities, sports organisations and event organisers are invited to apply now for funding.

The grants will support projects that strengthen communities, improve local facilities, increase participation in activities and help make Ashton an even better place to live, work and visit.

The funding includes:

• £270,000 for community centres, charities and voluntary organisations to improve buildings, buy equipment, support volunteers and run projects that help bring people together.
• £529,000 for sports and leisure facilities and activities to improve facilities, increase accessibility, provide new equipment and support more opportunities for local people to be active.
• Funding for events and activities that celebrate local culture, attract visitors and encourage more people to spend time in Ashton town centre.

The monies could also support improvements to sports facilities and clubhouses, new or adapted equipment, fitness sessions, wellbeing activities, markets, family events and live entertainment.

The programme builds on a range of successful Pride in Place projects and events already delivered in Ashton. Organisations can apply for support to run markets, creative workshops, cultural activities, live music and other events for residents and visitors.

The grants are part of wider investment in Ashton. Alongside major regeneration projects across the town, they will help local organisations improve neighbourhoods and shape Ashton’s future.

Chair of the Ashton Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board, Phill Brown, said: "Since the Ashton Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board was created, I've met so many residents, volunteers and community groups who are passionate about making a positive difference in Ashton. These new grant schemes are a great opportunity to support that ambition, helping local people bring their ideas to life and make Ashton an even better place to live, work and visit."

Councillor Andrew McLaren, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Growth, Housing and Homelessness at Tameside Council, said: "Ashton is undergoing significant investment and transformation, and these grant schemes will help ensure local people and organisations can play a direct role in that journey. By funding improvements to community facilities, sports opportunities and town centre events, this investment will help create a stronger, more vibrant Ashton for residents and visitors alike."

Applications close at 12 noon on Monday 30 November 2026.

Applications can be submitted by email to ashtontownboard@tameside.gov.uk or delivered to Tameside One for the attention of the Strategic Growth Unit.

Projects will be assessed against criteria including their contribution to the Ashton Pride in Place vision, alignment with the Ashton Regeneration Plan, financial viability and deliverability.

For full eligibility criteria, application guidance and application forms, visit www.tameside.gov.uk/ashtonprideinplace or contact the Ashton Pride in Place team.