Thames Centre continues its Community Improvement Plan

By Nancy Abra

Thames Centre council approved the continuation of the municipality’s Community Improvement Plan (CIP) at its regular meeting Dec. 8.

Grants are available for several types of projects through the CIP, including improving accessibility, energy efficiency, landscaping, tourism diversification and developing on-farm retail services with the first round of 2026 CIP grant applications to be reviewed in February.

Middlesex County is providing $1,267.30 to the Municipality of Thames Centre, covering half the cost of their contribution to the project.

“Middlesex County recognizes the importance of partnering with existing local businesses,” said Cara Finn, director of economic development for Middlesex County. “We support each of our municipalities who have developed Community Improvement Plans to strategically invest in projects that support the economic development priorities of the local community and Middlesex County.”

“Business owners can apply with a description of their proposal, and two quotes for the cost of the project,” added Amanda Storrey, director of planning and development services at Thames Centre.

The application deadline for the next intake of CIP grant applications is Feb. 6 and can be submitted to planning@thamescentre.on.ca for review.

For more information, including a more thorough explanation of CIP grants available, visit www.thamescentre.on.ca/CIP.