Braintree District Council said the schemes had helped strengthen communities, support businesses and improve the quality of life for residents. A further £61,600 was distributed through councillor grants, supporting 87 projects including improvements to community halls, sports clubs, recycling initiatives and planting schemes. Health and wellbeing projects also received backing, with £10,000 awarded to counselling services, mental health support and initiatives designed to tackle health inequalities. The council invested £375,100 in modernising community assets including Witham Public Hall, Witham Leisure Centre and Braintree Town Hall. “While there is always more to do, I am proud of the progress we have made and the difference these projects are making to people's lives across the district."