SCRF

STATION COMMUNITY REGENERATION FUND (SCRF)

Please note that the deadline to submit scheme applications in this funding round has been set as Monday 1st February 2010.  Further information is available through the associated press release.

The Scheme
Transport Scotland and ScotRail have launched a £1 million Scotland-wide scheme to make use of disused railway station buildings. The Stations Community Regeneration Fund (SCRF) forms part of the agreement to extend the ScotRail franchise contract.

Aim
This scheme aims to make use of disused station buildings as either:
• a business meeting passenger or community needs
• a community project which contributes to the local community.

The SCRF will create conditions where passengers will benefit from improved facilities at stations, redundant buildings will be brought back into use, and new opportunities for job creation and community involvement will be opened up.

How to apply for funding?
If you have an idea that would make use of a disused station building you can apply to the fund for a contribution towards set-up costs. Further information, including an application form are available here.

What is the fund for?
The fund can be used in two ways:
• to carry out structural repairs to buildings over and above normal railway works
• to meet up to 50% of fit-out costs of the building for its intended use.

Is there a funding cap?
No upper limit exists, though the scheme would not expect to be used for proposals which require less the £5k. Any application seeking funding of £75k or more must be supported by a feasibility study which will be assessed for its strengths and weaknesses but which will not be included in the evaluation process.  Approval of requests for funding on this scale will be put to Scottish Ministers for final decision.

Assessment Criteria
Applications will be assessed against specific criteria which have been informed by responses to Transport Scotland’s recent consultation. Click here to view the consultation document. Applications will be assessed against the following criteria:

1. Proposal details – ensuring a fit between the proposed project and the building
2. Local fit – giving assurance the proposal works in partnership with or complements other local organisations
3. Market – showing that an evidence base exists and there is a need or market for the proposal
4. Outcome – targets and benefits expected as a result of the proposal.

Who to Contact
ScotRail will manage and administer the scheme and should be contacted in the first instance. You can contact ScotRail by email at SCRF@firstgroup.com or by contacting 0845 601 5929. A paper version of the application form is also available on request from ScotRail.