Published on:
05
September 2013
Clackmannanshire Council is inviting applications from groups from all over the county to get their share of £100,000 worth in grants which are available to local communities in a bid to improve quality of life in the area.
The Council's Community Environmental Improvement Fund is open to communities across Clackmannanshire following the public launch this week, with the closing date for applications, 31st October.
Launched last year, the fund gave out almost £100k to eleven successful projects, including £9,990 to the development of a natural play project at Park Primary School, where this year's call for applications was launched.
Committee Convenor Donald Balsillie said: "I'm delighted to see the difference that the Council's funding has made at Park Primary School, and to many other projects in the county. From the removal of chewing gum in Alloa town centre to providing a new viewing platform at Menstrie Glen, last year's successful projects have improved the environment and quality of life for local communities.
"I hope that this year communities from throughout the county will be inspired by these projects and apply to the fund to help improve their local areas and that local businesses will consider supporting the fund either financially or with support in kind."
To receive a grant, communities have to demonstrate Spend to Save principles while at the same time developing community participation by residents who want to make a difference to their environment and improve the quality of life in their area."
Each community will be able to apply for one project up to a maximum of £10,000, with the minimum grant being £1,000.
Ways the cash could be used include providing, restoring or improving community environmental resources such as parks, community gardens, reduction of waste, reuse, recycling or use of environmentally friendly materials, gardens, local green spaces, woodlands or paths.
The fund is also aimed at establishing community and special interest groups with the goal of improving their local environment; improving degraded land, main streets and neighbourhoods for public benefit.
The criteria laid down for a grant to be made is that a project must be capable of completion by a year from the start date, be located within Clackmannanshire, and be unlikely to be able to proceed without this funding. Match funding is not essential, but projects attracting match funding will be scored higher, and projects must not result in increased maintenance costs for the Council.
A guide leaflet and application form for groups looking for a cash grant under The Community Environmental Improvement Fund has been prepared explaining how to apply for a grant under this exciting scheme.
Community groups from all over Clackmannanshire have up until 31st October to submit their applications.