£750,000 funding boost help South Oxfordshire’s growing communities
Published Friday 30 January 2026
South Oxfordshire District Council has opened applications for the second round of its Community Infrastructure Levy Grant Fund (CIL). A total of £750,000 is available to help create or improve important community facilities across the district.
Town and parish councils, as well as not-for-profit community groups, can now apply for grants between £75,000 and £250,000.
The fund supports projects that are needed because of new development in the area. This includes community centres, sports and cultural facilities, open spaces, play areas, and other key local amenities.
The aim is to make sure growing communities have the facilities and services they need.
The new round of the grant funding will close for applications at 5pm on 30 March.
Previous grant recipient Wallingford Sports Park used the funding to help complete a major upgrade to its ‘all weather pitch’ which included a new shock pad and playing surface, a high-quality multi-use games area, and a safer, more comfortable spectator area.
John Atkins, Wallingford Sports Trust Co-Chair of the Board of Trustees, said: “This project shows the power of partnership between local organisations. We are enormously grateful to SODC for their ongoing commitment to sport and community life in Wallingford. These new facilities will benefit players, clubs, and the wider community for years to come.”
Councillor Pieter-Paul Barker, Cabinet Member for Finance at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “We’re pleased to open this second round of CIL funding. By using contributions from developers, we can support projects that help our communities grow. This fund will help create and improve local spaces that support people’s wellbeing and keep our growing neighbourhoods thriving.
“Projects must deliver new or expanded facilities that support our growing population. The council will give extra consideration to projects that focus on sustainability, inclusivity and consideration of environmental impacts.”
Cllr Barker added:
“It’s great to see the difference this grant has made at Wallingford Sports Park. The improved facilities are already helping local clubs and residents, and it’s a clear example of how CIL funding can strengthen our communities.”
The grant is funded by contributions from developers for building new homes in the district, known as the Community Infrastructure Levy, and collected and distributed by the district council to invest in vital infrastructure delivered by the council, town and parish councils and other community organisations.
More information is available on the Council’s website, including guidance documents and information on how to apply.
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