While delivering a deal between the UK and EU remains to be the government’s top priority over the coming weeks, assurances have been given about European Regional Development Funding (ERDF) in the event of a “no-deal” Brexit scenario.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government has released official guidance to help in the planning of local growth projects which receive ERDF.
Whether you’re currently running a project which is receiving funding, or thinking about applying for new funding, here’s what you need to know…
What will happen to ERDF if we leave the EU with a deal?
Delivering a deal between the UK and EU remains the government’s top priority.
If a deal is reached between the UK and the EU then we will continue to take part in the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) programmes until they end. This means that we will have the same amount of ERDF to spend in England as we would have if we’d remained in the EU.
What will happen to ERDF if no deal is reached?
The government also has plans in place that can be used in case it is not possible to agree a deal with the EU.
For ERDF, the government has guaranteed that we will continue to invest in local growth projects after we leave the EU. This means that we will ensure that any ERDF projects which have been agreed before we leave the EU will be able to continue. The government will also fund new projects that deliver good value for money and meet domestic strategic priorities up to the full value of the ERDF programme.
What does this mean for my project?
So, whether you are running an existing project or thinking about applying for new funding, you can do so with full confidence, in either a deal or no-deal situation. This delivers on the government’s commitment to continue to invest in the growth and prosperity of communities across the UK and ensure a smooth departure from the EU.
If you’re considering applying for funding, new calls are currently being released with more expected in the Spring. You can stay up-to-date with these calls here.
How can I stay up-to-date with latest ERDF developments?
MHCLG will provide more information on how the guarantee for ERDF will be delivered in England in the event of a no-deal as this becomes available. You’ll be able to find more on the Local Government Brexit Preparedness page and the prepare for EU Exit pages.
If you work in the Third Sector and would like to share your concerns of a “no-deal” Brexit scenario with us, you can contact us via andychurchill@civilsocietyinvolvement.com
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