$240k for Masterton East community

Masterton East, identified by the Government as an area of high deprivation, was one of 12 areas in New Zealand selected to receive money and will get $240k in funding. FILE PHOTO

Connecting Communities Wairarapa will receive $240,000 in funding for community development in Masterton East, as part of the Government's Community Development Scheme.

Masterton East, identified by the Government as an area of high deprivation, was one of 12 areas selected to receive the money.

Connecting Communities Wairarapa Manager Sandy Ryan said the grant of $80,000 each year for three years would fund a co-ordinator to work with the Masterton East community to develop a Neighbourhood Plan. The co-ordinator would identify the community's goals, aspirations and local issues.

Having a community co-ordinator would assist Masterton East to work together in new ways, generate solutions to local issues, and work towards a more self-reliant and resilient community, Mrs Ryan said.

A working group to lead the project had been developed.

"I am very excited that our application was successful.

"The community development co-ordinator's role is being advertised and Connecting Communities expects to fill the role early November."

Wairarapa MP Alastair Scott said the money would be a "big help" to Connecting Communities.

"By focusing on skill-sharing and the exchange of knowledge in our community, the scheme provides wins for everyone involved," he said.

"Most importantly, this scheme supports groups who work hard to ensure our communities are vibrant, positive places to live.

"There are many groups making positive contributions in our community here and across New Zealand.

"I hope this funding encourages other groups to get involved within our community."

Mrs Ryan said the Masterton East Project was in partnership with the Masterton East community and Masterton District Council.