UKSPF

Harborough District Council is committed to enhancing the prosperity and well-being of its communities. A key part of this commitment involves effectively utilising national funding streams to deliver impactful local projects. For the 2025-26 period, the Council will be managing significant investments through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF). This page outlines how these funds will be used to benefit residents, businesses, and the environment across Harborough District.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is a central pillar of the UK government's ambition to level up the entire United Kingdom. It is designed to support the government's national Missions by empowering local communities, fostering economic growth, and promoting opportunities in all parts of the country. The UKSPF represents a shift towards devolving decision-making and funding, allowing local authorities like Harborough District Council to identify and invest in projects that best meet the specific needs and aspirations of their areas. This approach ensures that national objectives are translated into tangible local actions, with councils serving as key partners in delivering prosperity where it matters most – within local communities.

For the 2025-26 financial year, Harborough District Council has been allocated a total of £710,593 in UKSPF funding. In addition to this, the district will benefit from £212,868 through the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF). These two funding streams, whilst both aimed at enhancing prosperity, are complementary. The UKSPF provides a broad framework for community and economic development across the district, whilst the REPF offers a targeted financial boost specifically designed to support the UKSPF's ambitions within Harborough District's valued rural localities. This dual-stream approach allows the Council to address a wide range of priorities whilst also ensuring dedicated support for the unique characteristics and needs of its rural areas.

Harborough District Council is dedicated to ensuring that these funds are used responsibly, transparently, and to maximum effect for the benefit of everyone in the district. The projects outlined for the 2025-26 programme have been carefully developed to align with the UK government's criteria and to ensure that the allocated funding is fully utilised to achieve meaningful outcomes. This reflects a proactive and comprehensive planning process undertaken by the Council. Rather than waiting for funds to arrive, specific projects have already been identified and developed, demonstrating a readiness to deploy these resources efficiently and effectively. This strategic foresight is crucial for minimising delays and maximising the positive impact of the 2025-26 allocations on the lives of Harborough District's residents and the vitality of its economy.

Harborough District Council is committed to keeping residents, businesses, and community organisations informed about the progress of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Rural England Prosperity Fund programmes. Many of the funded projects rely on community engagement and participation for their success.

Contact Information: For enquiries related to the UKSPF and REPF programme in Harborough District, please contact business@harborough.gov.uk.

Further Information: You can find more information about Harborough District Council's strategic priorities, such as the Economic Development Strategy and Community Strategy, on the council's main website. Links to other relevant funding opportunities available through the Council can also be found there.

Stay Updated: To receive updates on the UKSPF and REPF programme, including announcements about when grant schemes (such as the REPF Rural Grant Fund) open for applications, please sign up to the Business Bulletin.