A NEW pre-school, an outdoor gym, and park improvements are among the community projects set to benefit from nearly £700,000.

The funding for the Poole-based projects has come from developer contributions, known as the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Neighbourhood Portion.

The initiative was launched by the council last year and, since then, over £2m has been allocated towards schemes in the local area.

The latest round of the CIL Neighbourhood Portion funding will provide much-needed support to 19 worthwhile projects that deliver benefits in areas where development has taken place.

Projects receiving a funding boost include Selkirk Close Play Park in Merley, which is being restored.

Some money will also go towards a new pre-school at Bishop Aldhelm’s Primary School in Branksome, as well as the installation of an outdoor gym at Bearwood Primary School for the use of students and the wider community.

‘Environmental enhancements’ will also be made at Alexandra Park in Parkstone, according to the council.

Community groups and businesses were invited by the council to submit bids for funding for projects that would help shape the development of their neighbourhood and improve the day-to-day life of local people.

Julian McLaughlin, head of growth and infrastructure at Borough of Poole, said: “The enthusiasm from local people has been really pleasing and has clearly been reflected in the quality of the bids.

“We received submissions for a variety of projects with different levels of financial support required, and it was a difficult job to prioritise and agree which schemes would receive funding.

“We are delighted to be supporting these projects which will bring genuine benefit to the people of Poole.”

Cllr Ian Potter, portfolio holder for planning, regeneration and transportation, said: “I am delighted that the council is able to provide further support for delivering community projects through its CIL Neighbourhood Portion scheme.

“This brings the total to over £2million given to local communities in the last 18 months.

“I would like to thank all applicants for their bids in the third bidding round and look forward to seeing the funded projects be delivered over the coming months”.

The CIL is a locally set planning charge on development to help pay for the town’s infrastructure such as education, transport, health and community facilities.