A STRING of Shaftesbury community groups have been handed a financial boost after town councillors approved a fresh round of grants.

At June’s Full Council meeting, Shaftesbury Town Council signed off a package of grants and funding for 2026/27, aimed at backing organisations that contribute to the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of the town.

Among the recipients are Shaftesbury Community Choir, which will receive £3,275 in free room hire, Open House with £1,000, and Shaftesbury Town Silver Band, which has been awarded £750.

Grants were also approved for Shaftesbury Cricket Club, North Dorset Rugby Football Club, Shaftesbury Youth Club, Shaftesbury Town Twinning and the Lindlar Community Association.

Councillors also approved a £5,000 Service Level Agreement for Citizens Advice Bureau, helping the service continue supporting residents next year.

The grants budget was overspent by £416 with the shortfall due to be covered from the council’s general reserves.

The funding pot has been made possible through surplus income generated by Coppice Street car park since 2024 – meaning money raised locally through parking is being channelled back into community life.

Town councillors said the awards would help groups continue providing valued activities, support and opportunities for people across Shaftesbury.