THE Transpennine Route Upgrade has opened its grant application window for its new community fund.

The Transpennine Route Upgrade offers small grants between £1000 and £5000, targeting community groups, schools, and charities along its 70-mile route.

The funding aims to enhance community-centred facilities, both indoor and outdoor.

From Monday, August 19, applications for medium grants (£5000 - £20,000) will also be available as part of the £175,000 fund.

Community projects located within 5 miles of the main Transpennine Route Upgrade route and its key diversionary routes will be eligible to receive funding.

Projects improving and promoting the usage of public spaces, especially those in areas of high social need, are more likely to be favoured.

The allocation of the funding will be independently managed on behalf of the Transpennine Route Upgrade by GMCVO.

GMCVO strives to empower the voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise sector.

The community fund is designed to ensure that the Transpennine Route Upgrade, a multi-billion-pound railway programme, brings real, long-term benefits to the communities and towns it will service in the upcoming decade.

Those interested in applying for a grant can find out more at www.gmcvo.org.uk.