Post-riot funding boost for community projects
Owen Humphries/PA wireProjects to "improve community cohesion" following last summer's riots are set to get the go-ahead.
Middlesbrough Council is one of 20 around the country to be allocated money from the government's Community Recovery Fund in the aftermath of August's violent disorder.
The £655,000 will be spent on events, engagement and youth provision, and the council has been working on plans with local representatives, community groups and the police.
Its report will be considered by the council's executive on Wednesday.
Unrest broke out during a protest in Middlesbrough on 4 August, with violence police described as "staggering".
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said: "The shocking scenes last summer didn't represent what our town is about.
"This funding can help organisations bring people together and recognise the positive contributions made by all communities.
"At the same time, we must also do more to understand all the factors that led to the riot.
"No single person or organisation has all the answers on how we should respond to what happened."
Various local groups came together to help clear up the riot's aftermath.
Sahida Ditta, the founder of the Amal Project, said: "Throughout the period of violent disorder and tensions, many groups including mosques and churches came together to share their knowledge and expertise.
"Voluntary groups became the essential link to bridge the gap between communities and public sector organisations.
"Therefore, I think the best way forward is for all of us to come together to ensure we are able to learn from what has happened, so we can all continue to grow and thrive."
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