Communities can bid to receive up to £20,000 to spend on projects and initiatives in their area.

Watford Borough Council’s neighbourhood grant is designed to improve, benefit and shape the development of the town’s communities.

The funding for the grant is generated by the money paid by housing developers, knows as community infrastructure levy, to support areas it is working in.

Examples of how the money could be spent include environmental improvements, new play areas, art, CCTV, lighting, traffic calming measures, community facilities, and equipment for community groups.

Watford Observer: Watford mayor Peter Taylor is encouraging community groups and organisations to apply for funding. Credit: Watford Borough CouncilWatford mayor Peter Taylor is encouraging community groups and organisations to apply for funding. Credit: Watford Borough Council

Watford mayor Peter Taylor said: "We are delighted to launch this fund and I invite you to begin developing your project bids now.

“We hope many local organisations will take advantage of the grants available. We want to support projects that will make a real difference to the lives of people in our communities.”

Grants are available ranging from a couple of hundred pounds up to £20,000.

Applications for funding can be made up until August 5 via watfordneighbourhoodgrant.commonplace.is