Merseytravel and the five District Authority have set aside funding from the Merseyside Local Transport Plan (LTP) to facilitate the development and implementation of innovative schemes designed to improve transport choice and accessibility for residential communities (particularly low income/ Pathways areas, and areas eligible for neighbourhood Renewal Funding.

A set amount of funding (approximately £50,000) will be made available each year to community/ voluntary organisations with a demonstrable track record of providing community transport and/ or access improvements. This funding will be made available in the form of a capital grant which must be spent on capital related items. Community Access Grants will be awarded to successfull applicants on a 'one off' single payment basis.

When considering wheather to support a scheme with a community Transport Access Grant, the LTP Partners will wish to see that the proposed scheme fits with the main themes contained within the LTP. Schemes proposed for low income areas should also fulfil the themes within the 'Breakthrough' - the Pathways Transport/ Accessibilty Improvement Plan. (Copies of 'Breakthrough' can be obtained from David Hall at Merseytravel - Tel 0151 330 1296 or daid.hall@merseytravel.gov.uk.

Organisations wishing to apply for Community Transport Access Grant must submit an attached Project Summary Form, setting out : -

• a brief summary of the main elements of the scheme;
  
• how the scheme fits with the main themes set out in the LTP and the 'Breakthrough' - Pathways Transport Accessibilty Improvement Plan;
  
• clear understanding of user needs;
• innovative approach to existing new problems;
• clear links into other agencies on projects;
• how both social and economic exclusion will be targeted;
• links into other transport projects; and
• evidence of a well thought out Business Plan showing a three year funding profile (capital/revenue) as well as a clear statement as to how the project will continue to be funded over the longer term.
  
  When awarding grants the LTP Partner Authority will be particularly keen to support schemes which :-
  
  
• promote community/ voluntary transport initiatives to a wider audience;
• demonstration of pilot projects incorporating 'best practice' features;
• clear committment to the goal for equal opportunities for all in the community.
  
  Successful applicants will be rquired to produce regularoutput and impact statements for the LTP Partners (showing how successfull the scheme is in delivering its objectives).
  
  When deciding on which shemes to support from the Community Transport Access Grant Fund, the LTP Partners may fund one or a couple of large demonstration projects or fund a larger number of smaller schemes in any one financial year.
  
  For further information on the Community Transport Access Grant, please contact :-
  
  Paulette Lappin
  Community Links and Access Team Co-ordinator
  Merseytravel
  24 Hatton Garden
  Liverpool
  L3 2AN
  
  E-Mail: paulette.lappin@merseytravel.gov.uk