This year's Local Enhancement Programme, which aims to support community groups and clubs with minor capital works and improvements to their facilities, has been launched in County Waterford.

These capital works may include carrying out necessary repairs and improvements to facilities, accessibility improvements, improving energy efficiency of community facilities, or to purchase equipment for community use.

The programme is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and administered by Waterford LCDC through Waterford City and County Council.

This year groups will be able to use the current element of funding to support their non-pay running costs, such as energy costs/bills (electricity costs, refuse charges, heating charges), rental/lease costs or insurance bills.

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Orla Kelly, Community Administration Officer, Waterford City and County Council, said: "The Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) provides vital support to small community groups and organisations to help them carry out invaluable work improving their facilities and purchasing equipment.

"By administering the 2024 LEP fund which supported 190 groups, we have seen first-hand how these grants can make a big difference and we would like to thank all our 2024 successful applicants for the vital work they do for their local communities.

"The application process is straight-forward, and I would encourage all interested groups to visit the council's website for information on this fund and how to apply."

Closing date for applications to the Local Enhancement Programme is at 4pm on January 31. Details can be found here.