Residents will be given their chance to comment on a number of agreed schemes at the next Heworth Ward Committee early next month. Sizeable grants have been agreed from the ward budget, with local groups supporting the young and old set to benefit. Tina Funnell, a Heworth councillor and Deputy Older People's Champion for the city, welcomed the schemes and invited residents to respond to the provisional list:

"As well as support to the young and elderly, the ward committee has also agreed a number of grants targeted at conservation and the local environment. Provisional grants of £4,000 and £4,400 are planned for improving play equipment in St Nicholas Field's park and for a Sustrans Ranger for the orbital cycle path respectively.

"Residents really value the local green space they have and are clearly keen to protect it. I think such spaces are invaluable when living in a city".

Also on the list is £6k for playspace activities in the ward benefiting 8 to 13 year olds, and a £1k contribution between York and District Mind and Older People's Advocacy York. Ward councillor Ruth Potter said the budget allocation reflected support for a range of groups in the community. She commented:

"I'm pleased residents have focused on the elderly and the young as these are groups that I feel do deserve extra funding. However, the various schemes agreed offer something for everyone.

"We will be discussing all of the schemes and I'd urge anyone interested in how we allocate some £22k in the ward each year to come along to our next meeting. It may prompt people to think they have ideas for schemes the following year, and to learn more about the process".

The meeting takes place at St Wulstan's Church on Fossway on Tuesday 2nd February, starting at 7pm.