A COUNCIL facing having to cut £167m from its budget is offering grants to groups interested in developing and managing a community facility in their area.

As part of its Stronger Communities initiative, North Yorkshire County Council will offer funding for feasibility studies into volunteer-led schemes, such as libraries, open spaces and former council buildings.

Earlier this year, the cash-strapped authority said it had decided to focus its efforts upon creating opportunities for young people and businesses, tackling loneliness and social isolation and improving broadband connectivity and transport links.

While its 2020 Council Plan shows its key objectives still include the delivery of services to the most vulnerable and developing strategies to tackle key issues, the authority said it would also focus on enabling individuals, families and communities to do the best for themselves.

The plan features a drive to support communities to provide a range of services by using local assets, to prevent loneliness and support troubled families, and contribute to healthier lifestyles.

To further this, the authority has become a member of the national Community Management and Ownership of Assets programme.

The move means the council can draw on expertise and advice which it can pass on to community groups who interested in managing a community resource and taking ownership of the council's assets.

For details about the grants in Hambleton, email adele.wilson@northyorks.gov.uk and for Richmondshire gillian.wall@northyorks.gov.uk