27th October 2025
Applause rang out for Cumbrian communities who have successfully brought transformational change to their area through inspirational projects and sheer effort. Their contributions were recognised at the 76th Annual General Meeting of ACTion with Communities in Cumbria (ACT), where community groups, volunteers and local leaders gathered to celebrate the remarkable achievements taking place across the county. :contentReference[oaicite:0]
Eighteen projects took part in ACT's Community Celebrations programme, showcasing the wide range of initiatives helping communities thrive. From affordable housing schemes and rural transport services to village hall improvements and innovative community projects, the celebration highlighted the creativity, determination and commitment of local people. :contentReference[oaicite:1]
Three projects were selected for special recognition at the event held at Preston Patrick Memorial Hall near Crooklands:
- Greystoke Swimming Pool – ambitious plans to sustainably rebuild and secure the future of the community-owned swimming pool.
- Garsdale Village Hall – bringing people together and strengthening community connections through an important rural facility.
- Keswick Community Housing Trust – pioneering community-led affordable housing solutions to address local housing need.
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ACT Chief Executive Lorrainne Smyth praised the enterprise, vision and commitment demonstrated by communities across Cumbria.
She highlighted the importance of planning and community engagement in helping local people achieve their goals and influence decisions that affect the future of their communities. ACT was pleased to welcome Lake District National Park Authority planner Chloe Swift, who explained how communities can become involved in Local Plan discussions before and during formal consultation. :contentReference[oaicite:3]
Lorrainne said:
"It was great paying tribute to some truly exceptional work. We saluted village hall plans, the introduction of lifeline rural bus services, drives for much-needed affordable homes, debt reduction and financial support programmes.
"Cumbrian communities are doing amazing things which make real differences to people's lives. Through our celebration of their incredible contributions, we wanted to share their stories." :contentReference[oaicite:4]
ACT has been supporting communities since 1948 and continues to champion rural and community issues across Cumbria. The Community Celebrations programme demonstrates how local action can address challenges, improve services and strengthen community resilience. :contentReference[oaicite:5]
Chair of Voluntary Action Cumbria, Jim Webster, who opened the AGM, emphasised that everyone who puts themselves forward to help their community deserves recognition for making Cumbria a better place for all. :contentReference[oaicite:6]
The full collection of Community Celebration projects includes initiatives focused on affordable housing, community buildings, transport, environmental sustainability, tackling isolation, reducing debt and supporting local wellbeing. Together they demonstrate the power of communities to shape their own futures and create lasting positive change. :contentReference[oaicite:7]
You can explore all of the Community Celebration case studies and learn more about the projects featured at the AGM through ACT's Community Celebrations programme. :contentReference[oaicite:8]
