UDC makes £300,000 fund available for community-based zero carbon projects

The council declared a climate and ecological emergency in 2019 and pledged to achieve net-zero status by 2030 as well as protect and enhance biodiversity in the district.

The authority has set aside £1 million over three years to help achieve its aims. As part of this, it has launched the new Zero Carbon Communities Grant to support community-based projects that reduce carbon dioxide emissions, support community engagement in climate change or improve biodiversity.

The funding pot will be split over two years - £150,000 allocated in 2022/23 and a further £150,000 in 2023/24 - with grants of between £1,000 and £35,000 available to parish and town councils, community groups or community interest companies, and not-for-profit organisations.

The first round of funding is open until January 2023, with bids being assessed and finalised in February.

Cllr Louise Pepper, portfolio holder for environment and green issues, said: "We know there are groups in Uttlesford taking action to combat climate change and are therefore delighted to now be able to provide a grant to support this community-led work, as well as other emerging projects, that are helping our communities to de-carbonise.

"The fund will also provide us with an opportunity for sharing ideas for community action, knowledge and best practice, and to look to develop new initiatives that will benefit all those who live or work in the district.

"I would strongly encourage community organisations and groups to apply for this funding."

WEBINAR

The council will host a webinar on 15 November, 7.30pm via Microsoft Teams, for interested town and parish councils and community groups that want to find out more about the fund and how they can apply.

To register, email climatechange@uttlesfordgov.uk to receive the joining link.

For more information about the fund and how to apply, including the criteria, visit www.uttlesford.gov.uk/zero-carbon-communities-grant.

31 October 2022