The funding from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund will support projects which improve local infrastructure.

This may include building new playgrounds and walkways or refurbishing existing local facilities like schools and community centres.

Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said the funding would realise projects that the Lithgow community needed.

“Although councils will submit all applications to the fund, community groups are strongly encouraged to identify proposals that meet local aspirations and ensure their local councils are aware of their interest in accessing this funding,” Mr Toole said.

Lithgow councillor Maree Statham was excited at the prospect of kick-starting fresh building work that would benefit the Lithgow area.

“I think there are a lot of projects now that we can pull out of the strategic planning document as well as listen to the community,” Councillor Statham said.

“There’s always amenities that need to be replaced, some wonderful tree avenues to be put in. I think there are any number of things now that we can get onto so that we can actually start the process and put in submissions.”

The funding will be supplied in two amounts of $852,000 over the next two years.

The NSW Government is seeking projects of at least $100,000 and typically in the range of $250,000 to $1 million per project.

Larger projects will be supported with financial co-contribution from council.

Projects submitted should be able to commence within a 12-month time period and ideally be complete within two years of funding approval.

Lithgow City Council must submit their applications on or before August 9, 2017. 

Community groups and individuals should submit their ideas to Lithgow City Council in writing at 180 Mort Street, Lithgow or council@lithgow.nsw.gov.au.

More information can be found at nsw.gov.au/strongercountrycommunities.