The Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) has opened applications for its 2026 Community Fund, with £270,000 available to projects supporting communities across the North.
Community groups, schools and charities located within five kilometres of the route between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York are eligible to apply. Organisations within five kilometres of the Shipley Traincare Centre can also submit applications.
Grants of up to £10,000
The standard grant is £5,000, although applicants can request up to £10,000 where additional funding would significantly increase the impact of their project. Applications are being managed by Neighbourly, and applicants must create a free account before applying.
TRU said projects should deliver a lasting benefit in their local area. Application forms, eligibility criteria and guidance are available through the TRU Community Fund 2026 campaign page.
The fund has awarded more than £400,000 to over 60 community groups, schools and charities since it was launched. TRU said previous awards had supported improvements to facilities, new opportunities for residents and community spaces, with recent project visits including the Booth Centre in Manchester and Make Space York.
Supporting communities during construction
Anna Humphries, TRU’s head of sustainability and social value, said the programme was intended to ensure communities benefited while the railway upgrade was being delivered, rather than only after completion.
“Over the last two years, we’ve seen funding help create inclusive learning environments, develop skills and employment opportunities, improve local spaces and bring people together,” she said.
Neighbourly chief executive Steve Butterworth said the partnership was helping organisations along the route access sustained support for local projects.