Community grant programme reopens to support local transport services

Efforts to strengthen community transport provision across West Northamptonshire are continuing, with a new round of funding now available to support local organisations in delivering services that help residents stay connected to vital appointments, activities and support networks.

West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has relaunched its Community Transport Grant Programme following an engagement exercise to assess current and future transport needs, alongside discussions with Parish Councils previously served by Ability CIC and community transport providers to identify the services they are willing and able to deliver.

While an equivalent replacement service to that previously provided by Ability CIC has not emerged, several community transport organisations have expressed an interest in expanding existing services or developing new provision to help meet identified local needs.

To give potential providers the opportunity to establish service viability and operating costs, the grant programme is being reopened to all eligible organisations. The scheme will also include the four minibuses returned to the Council following the closure of Ability CIC, enabling applicants to incorporate these vehicles into proposed transport services where appropriate.

Applications can be made for funding, minibuses, or a combination of both, where proposals help address the transport gaps created by the closure of Ability CIC and deliver clear benefits to affected residents and communities.

Earlier this year, the Community Funding Grants Panel awarded £72,000 to voluntary car schemes and other community transport organisations already delivering services across West Northamptonshire, including in areas previously served by Ability CIC. The remaining £101,000 is now available through this relaunch of the Community Transport Grant Programme.

Cllr Charlie Hastie, Deputy Leader of WNC and Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, said: “We know the closure of Ability CIC has had a significant impact on some residents who relied on community transport to access essential services, attend appointments and remain connected to their communities.

“While no single organisation has been able to replicate the service previously provided, we are committed to working with local partners to help develop and strengthen community-led transport solutions that meet local needs.

“This funding presents an opportunity for community and faith groups, social enterprises, and town and parish councils to play a key role in supporting residents by expanding existing services or creating new ones. We encourage any eligible organisation that can help address these transport gaps and deliver benefits for local communities to apply.”

Applications for this round of funding should be submitted no later than 10am on Monday, 23 November 2026.

To request an application form and guidance, please email communitygrants@westnorthants.gov.uk.