Deadline: 16-Oct-2026

The Large Capital Project Fund provides grants for high-quality community capital projects valued between £2,501 and £20,000 that deliver significant benefits to the Borough. The fund supports new facilities, renovations, land purchase, professional fees, accessibility improvements, and infrastructure that reduces long-term maintenance costs. Eligible applicants are formally constituted, community-managed, not-for-profit organisations operating at the local level.

Large Capital Project Fund

Programme Overview

The Large Capital Project Fund supports substantial capital investments that strengthen community infrastructure and improve access, safety, and participation. The programme targets larger-scale capital works that create lasting value for local communities and address priority infrastructure needs within the Borough.

Key Objectives and Strategic Focus

The fund aims to:

• Deliver high-impact capital projects with measurable community benefit

• Improve access, safety, and inclusion in community facilities

• Support sustainable infrastructure and reduce long-term maintenance costs

• Enable community organisations to develop and modernise facilities

What Types of Projects Are Funded?

Capital Works and Infrastructure

Eligible capital projects include:

• Construction of new community facilities such as venues and sports pitches

• Major renovation, refurbishment, and modernisation projects

• Building extensions and conversions

• Flooring and ground improvement works

• Lighting installations and upgrades

• Electrical rewiring, plumbing, and heating systems

Accessibility, Safety, and Inclusion Improvements

The fund prioritises projects that:

• Improve disability access and inclusive design

• Enhance child protection and safeguarding measures

• Create safer, more usable community spaces

Land Purchase and Professional Fees

Funding may be used for:

• Land purchase directly linked to the capital project

• Professional and legal fees associated with capital expenditure

• Planning, design, and compliance-related costs

Additional Eligible Costs

The programme also supports:

• Non-recoverable VAT

• Purchase of fixtures and fittings related to the project

• Capital expenditure for mobile services in rural areas

• Measures that reduce maintenance costs, including bore well installations

Funding Amount

• Minimum project value: £2,501

• Maximum project value: £20,000

• Funding is intended for full or substantial capital project delivery

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

Eligible Organisations

Applicants must be:

• Formally constituted organisations

• Community-managed and autonomous

• Operating on a not-for-personal-profit basis

• Serving wider community interests

• Working at a local community level

Organisations operating for private or personal gain are not eligible.

Why This Fund Matters

Larger capital projects often unlock transformational improvements for communities, from safer facilities to expanded services. This fund enables community organisations to invest in durable infrastructure, improve accessibility, and deliver long-term social value while reducing future maintenance burdens.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Check Organisational Eligibility

Confirm that your organisation meets all governance, community management, and not-for-profit requirements.

Step 2: Define the Capital Project

Clearly outline the capital works, costs, timelines, and expected community benefits.

Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documentation

Compile budgets, quotes, ownership or land documentation, and evidence of community need.

Step 4: Submit the Application

Submit the completed application in line with the Borough’s guidance and deadlines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting revenue or operational costs instead of capital expenditure

• Proposing projects outside the £2,501–£20,000 funding range

• Weak justification of community benefit

• Missing documentation for land purchase or professional fees

• Inadequate planning for accessibility or safeguarding improvements

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the funding range for this programme?

The fund supports capital projects valued between £2,501 and £20,000.

Can land purchase be funded?

Yes, land purchase directly linked to the capital project is eligible.

Are professional and legal fees eligible?

Yes, if they are directly associated with capital expenditure.

Is VAT an eligible cost?

Yes, non-recoverable VAT is eligible for funding.

Are rural and mobile services supported?

Yes, capital expenditure supporting mobile services in rural areas is eligible.

Can accessibility improvements be funded?

Yes, projects improving disability access and child protection are prioritised.

Who cannot apply?

Private businesses, individuals, and organisations operating for personal profit are not eligible.

Conclusion

The Large Capital Project Fund offers substantial support for community organisations delivering high-quality capital projects with lasting local impact. Well-planned, inclusive, and sustainable infrastructure projects aligned with community needs are best positioned for funding success.

For more information, visit Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.