Portsmouth set to see more public spaces, green schools and local art as funding approved
A total of more than £125,000 is hoped to celebrate local art and boost tourism
Portsmouth's set to see more local art, green schools and community spaces as £125,000 of funding has been approved.
Portsmouth City Council has signed off the funding for three community projects through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL).
The schemes are hoped to attract tourists, celebrate local art and bring colour and community spirit to the city's streets.
The first project will be a £50,000 city-wide public art trail in collaboration with Wild in Art as part of the Portsmouth 100 Celebration.
It's planned to feature installations from national and international artists, with a focus on Portsmouth's creativity.
The second scheme will put £70,000 towards a Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) programme across schools.
Supported by a further £635,000 match funding from Southern Water and the Department for Education, it aims to tackle surface water flooding and help schools adapt to climate change.
SUDS uses features like trees and rain gardens to manage rainwater and improve biodiversity, as well as playgrounds.
It's planned to begin with seven schools, with Southern Water working with a further four.
Funding is being sought to expand the scheme to up to 18 schools in total.
Councillor Kimberly Barrett said the project will make school playgrounds “more accessible”, helping children enjoy a better environment after heavy rain.
The third scheme will provide £5,133 for accessibility improvements at Milton Community Allotment.
Planned works include new gravel flooring, upgraded pathways, a new tool shed, and raised, wheelchair-accessible flower beds.
They hope to make the site more functioning and welcoming for community groups.