£10,000 UK Shared Prosperity Fund Awarded to Buxton Civic Association to support visitor engagement at Poole’s Cavern and Buxton Country Park

Tuesday 10th February 2026

Buxton Civic Association has received £10,000 from the Mayor
of the East Midlands and East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA)
from funding provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity
Fund (UKSPF).

The funding will support a project being undertaken in February 2026, which will deliver new interpretation at Poole’s Cavern & Buxton Country Park, alongside measures to improve conservation and security.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “This £10,000 investment from the UKSPF is about celebrating and safeguarding what makes Buxton such a special place. Poole’s Cavern and Buxton Country Park are treasured assets, drawing visitors from across the region and beyond, and this project will help people connect more deeply with their history, landscape and stories.”

“I am pleased to support Buxton Civic Association. By enhancing the visitor experience while protecting these sites for the future, this project reflects our commitment to sustainable tourism, environmental stewardship and inclusive access to culture and nature.”

“Through EMCCA, we are using UK Government funding to back local organisations that know their communities best and deliver real, lasting benefits. This investment will strengthen Buxton’s visitor offer, support the local economy and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy these remarkable places.”

Dave Green, CEO of Buxton Civic Association, said: “This funding is a welcome investment in one of Buxton’s most important heritage assets. The project will enhance how visitors engage with Poole’s Cavern and Buxton Country Park, while strengthening our ability to protect and conserve the site for future generations. We are grateful to the Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, EMCCA and the UK Government for their support.”

Established in 1967, Buxton Civic Association is the leading environmental and heritage charity dedicated to preserving and enhancing the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Buxton, Derbyshire. BCA owns and manages Poole’s Cavern and 160 acres of woodland across the town, including Corbar, Grin Low, Sherbrook and Gadley Woods.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is providing £25.17 million of funding for local investment across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire in 2025/26. This funding, distributed by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), aims to boost pride in place and increase life chances in the region. The investment will focus on supporting communities and businesses, as well as developing skills for individuals.

For more information, visit: UK Shared Prosperity Fund: 2025/26 Technical Note –
GOV.UK