News on HS2 in Bucks & Oxfordshire

Today saw three more projects awarded funding in Buckinghamshire as part of the HS2 Community and Business Funds.

The Chilterns Conservation Board has been awarded £120,303 BLEF funding. The project aims to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the Chilterns AONB and increase public understanding and enjoyment.

This project is a three-year tourism initiative to highlight that the central Chilterns area is ‘Open for Business’ throughout HS2 construction and is an outstanding area to visit. It aims to maintain a vibrant visitor economy during construction, attracting visitors, increasing footfall and visitor spend, despite the disruption.

A full-time project manager will coordinate and deliver a programme of activities to promote the central Chilterns including: six walking festivals; three food and drink festivals; a marketing and communication programme including online and printed materials; a business engagement drive with 12 networking events to inform firms about the festivals, campaigns and opportunities, encouraging them to take part, and production of The Chilterns Pass – a promotional loyalty card for local residents and tourists.

Little Missenden Parish Council have been awarded £28,000 CEF funding to provide multi-functional toddler play equipment at the local recreation ground. The equipment will include multiple access points such as steps, ramps, nets and slides, providing stimulation, variety and challenge for the children. It will also include sensory elements, encouraging curiosity and a sense of adventure.

Carers Trust Bucks and Milton Keynes, a registered charity in Aylesbury have been awarded £70,907 CEF funding for a project to provide additional support to carers whose roles may become more difficult because of the construction of HS2.

The community and business funds are administered and managed by independent community charity, Groundwork UK. Visit the Groundwork website for further information about Groundwork and the funds themselves.

You can also see an interactive map showing all of the projects awarded funding so far by clicking here .