By Laura Potts, MRTPI, Planning Consultant, CAD Planning
Here is a great current funding opportunity which may suit some local organisations. At CAD Architects, the leading planning consultancy in Cornwall, we are fully committed to sustainable development that adds to the quality of life for our local communities. We want to help raise awareness of the CIL Fund, so as many of you as possible can benefit from it.
What is the CIL Fund?
When new developments are constructed in Cornwall, the developer must pay a Community Infrastructure Levy to Cornwall Council. The purpose of the levy is to generate money which can be invested to mitigate the cumulative impact of developments on local communities.
As part of this process, a proportion of the money raised is used the create the CIL Fund. Local groups can apply for a grant from this fund. These groups could include:
- Local council and parish councils
- Local non-profit organisations
- Community groups
How is the funding used?
The funding can be used for infrastructure projects that support the development of local communities, in areas such as:
- Open spaces
- Recreational facilities
- Schools and education
- Community halls and facilities
- Health and wellbeing
- Inclusivity
- Footpaths and green spaces
For example, major new housing developments can lead to increased use of local community amenities and services as populations grow. The CIL Fund can help support these facilities so they continue to meet local needs.
CIL Fund grants are generally restricted to capital expenditure and cannot be used for day-to-day running costs.
Examples of supported projects
Since its inception in 2020, the Cornwall CIL Fund has invested £5.8 million to support 87 different community projects across Cornwall. Some of the major beneficiaries in the last round of funding were:
- 2nd Saltash Scout Group: £100,000.00 to construct an extension to the Latchbrook Community Centre, refurbishment of surrounding games court and green park space
- AFC St Austell Ltd: £100,000.00 to redevelop their facilities creating a new artificial grass pitch and community sports hub
- Bodmin College: £59,612.60 to refurbish a space for vocational and entrepreneurial learning
- Bodmin Youth Football Club: £100,000.00 to replace the dilapidated pavilion with a modern facility
- Callington Youth Project Group: £100,000.00 to purchase a building to establish a youth centre
- Carn Brea Leisure Centre Trust: £100,000.00 to undertake essential works to Carn Brea Leisure Centre
These are substantial investments that can make a real difference in strengthening local communities in Cornwall.
New funding round announced for CIL
The fifth CIL Fund round opened on Friday 16 January 2026, enabling eligible local groups to bid for between £20,000 and £100,000.
Any eligible group or organisation that would like to apply for CIL funding, must first submit an Expression of Interest form. This needs to be submitted by 3pm on Friday 27 February 2026. Projects that are considered suitable for CIL support, will then be invited to submit a full application. Groups and organisations will be given a further four months to develop this. Successful projects are expected to be announced mid-December 2026.
Anyone wishing to apply should:
- read the Expression of Interest guidance document, and
- complete the Expression of Interest form
The completed form should be sent to cil@cornwall.gov.uk before 3pm on Friday 27 February 2026.
If this funding opportunity may be relevant to you or an organisation you are involved with, don’t miss out on this great opportunity.
Full details, including guidance document and forms can be found at this link:
https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control/developer-contributions/cil-fund/
At CAD Planning, we are always on the look out for opportunities that will benefit our clients and stay abreast of all the latest legislation and funding opportunities.
For more information about our services and for a no-obligation chat about your own project idea, contact us by emailing info@cad-planning.co.uk