NORTH Yorkshire County Council’s bid for a £8.46m share of funding earmarked to allow organisations to invest in their area has been put to the government.

The council has submitted 28 innovative projects bidding for a share of the £220m nationally available from the UK Community Renewal Fund.

County Councillor Andrew Lee, executive member for business growth and economic development, said: “We were really impressed with the quality of bids that were submitted and we are pleased to say that we are putting forward 28 excellent projects to the Government.

“The coronavirus pandemic has been an incredibly challenging time for communities, businesses and their employees so this new revenue stream is vital as we begin the rebuilding process across North Yorkshire prior to the launch of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund next year.

“At this stage we can’t reveal details of the projects due to business sensitivity but with the Government decision expected before August, it won’t be long until we can celebrate the successful bids and commence delivery.”

The share of the bids are circa £3m in Scarborough, £1.94m in Richmondshire, £980,000 in Ryedale, £818,400 in Hambleton, £818,300 in Craven, £467,600 in Selby and £465,400 in Harrogate.

The Community Renewal Fund is being delivered as a pilot by the Government in preparation for the introduction of the Shared Prosperity Fund which replaces EU funding following the Brexit process.