Heated swimming pools, fitness courses for schools, visitors' toilets and a basketball court are just some of the projects made possible via Western Bay of Plenty District Council's Facilities in the Community Grant.

And applications for the district council grant are now open – with more than $100,000 up for grabs to help with the development of recreational facilities within the district.

The Aongatete Trust shelter under construction. Photo: Supplied.

The fund is released every two years to help provide resources for public recreation and leisure – particularly in areas where population growth and the changing nature of communities trigger the need for new facilities.

Since 2003, it's helped fund everything from bowling greens and building upgrades, to senior playgrounds, fitness trails and carparks.

Community groups that have benefited from the grant in the past include Pongakawa School, for the building of its sporting complex, Aongatete Forest Restoration Trust and the Te Rereatukahia Marae.

Aongatete Trust representative Basil Graeme applied for the fund in 2014 and received $30,000 for their project.

'The shed, public shelter and separate toilet have been an absolute boon for our volunteers and the general public walking the lovely bush tracks at Aongatete,” says Basil.

Applications close at 4pm on October 15.

Certain conditions apply for the fund, and these can be found on Council's website alongside the relevant application forms.