A FURTHER million is set to be added to the borough’s Community Investment Fund.

Wigan Council is set to approve the extra £1m worth of funding at tonight’s full council meeting as part of a package of support that will help communities to remain resilient despite the government’s austerity measures.

The fund has already seen £4m granted to around 100 voluntary groups and social entrepreneurs as part of the council’s Deal for Communities.

The cash fund has helped communities make a positive contribution to their neighbourhood and has provided a lifeline to hundreds of residents.

Lord Peter Smith, leader of Wigan Council, says the council wants more people to help their communities.

He said: “Despite the economic difficulties we face, this investment has helped community groups deliver vital services in the heart of local communities, which the council can longer afford to do.

“I’ve been extremely impressed with how popular the scheme has been, and how eager residents are to help. The results so far have been fantastic and I know we have lots of groups who are keen to make a difference, which is why we’ve decided to extend the scheme.”

One group that has benefitted is the Green Grass Centre in Hag Fold, which was awarded £114,117, earlier this year.

The centre launched in 2009 and hosts computer, floristry and cookery courses, after school clubs, job workshops and more, but wants to know what else residents would like to see in their community.

Lynn Hayes, who runs the centre said: “This is a fabulous opportunity to tell us what you would like delivering on the estate.

“We will be knocking on your door to ask you what activities and what courses you want to attend.”

To find out what activities are on offer visit greengrasscentre.co.uk/?page_id=26.

Community groups and residents will be able to bid for a slice of the grant, up to £5,000, from Monday.

To find out more, visit wigan.gov.uk/thedeal.

For updates throughout tonight's full council meeting follow our live blog from 7pm.