- Outdoor offering transformed at 3rd Chilwell Scouts by Council grant
Outdoor offering transformed at 3rd Chilwell Scouts by Council grant
A new campfire circle, which is the first of its kind in the Southwest Nottinghamshire District, formed part of the project. Transforming an underutilised outdoor space into a unique space for community cohesion, the firepit has already seen its fair share of use.
Grant funding also allowed for a sheltered, safe and inclusive outdoor learning area including a solid canopy, log round seating and learning banners, providing a weather resistant space for groups to learn, play, and meet.
Serving five of the Chilwell Scouts own groups, Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers, in addition to local schools, residents, youth and community groups, the Scout Hut is a cherished community space in the area, evidenced by the involvement of nearly 20 local volunteers in the project.
Following increased demand from local groups to use the hut, the grant has allowed the group to make use of an unused green space to provide affordable outdoor facilities, that the locality previously lacked, to community and volunteer groups.
Chair of the Board of Trustees for the 3rd Chilwell Scout Group, Michael Brown, said, "This grant has made a massive difference to our scout group already, with campfire sing-a-longs being an instant favourite activity for our young members. More than that, the improvements have made our outdoor space a great local community resource and we have seen a big increase in local community groups booking the hut for their own activities."
Portfolio Holder for Asset Management and Development, Councillor Milan Radulovic MBE, said, “Scout and Guide Groups help to instil so many vital skills in young people, whether they are social, practical, or behavioural – they lay important foundations for them to build upon, setting them in good stead as they grow older.
“Investment in community groups like the 3rd Chilwell Scouts is so important, enhancing their offering not only to the groups they host, but the wider community with facilities that bring something new to the area.
“This Scout Hut like so many others is beloved by the Chilwell community and I’m so pleased we’ve been able to support them in creating an outdoor space that I’m sure will hold many memories for users in times to come.”
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said, “It’s fantastic to see how investment from the UKSPF is making a real difference for communities like Chilwell. This project at the 3rd Chilwell Scouts transforms underused space into vibrant facilities where young people can learn, build confidence and develop vital life skills.
“I want to thank everyone who has made this possible. Their commitment shows the power of community spirit and why continued investment is so important to boosting pride in place and opportunity across the East Midlands.
“UKSPF has been a vital source of local investment, and I’m pleased it is continuing this year while government develops its successor. The £25 million allocated to the East Midlands will sustain jobs that support community-led services and drive regeneration - boosting growth while keeping our places attractive to visitors and investors.”
For those wanting to find out more and how to get involved with the 3rd Chilwell Scouts, as a member or volunteer, visit their website (Opens in a new window).
The 3rd Chilwell Scout Group have received £15,493.87 from East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) from funding provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is providing £25.17 million of funding for local investment across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire in 2025/26. This funding, distributed by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), aims to boost pride in place and increase life chances in the region. The investment will focus on supporting communities and businesses, as well as developing skills for individuals.
Broxtowe Borough Council has been allocated a total of £1,056,720 in 2025/6. Activity funded includes local business and skills support and a set of community projects