AHNE Bryniau Clwyd / Clwydian Range AONB

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The Sustainable Development Fund (SDF)

The National Assembly for Wales has set up this exciting new scheme which is co-ordinated by the Countryside Council for Wales. It provides an opportunity to apply for grant aid for innovative, sustainable, environment projects which involve local communities in the Clwydian Range Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

So, what is sustainability?

Sustainability is about balancing environmental, social and economic requirements, so that our present needs can be met without compromising the ability of future generations to adequately meet their own needs.

What are the aims of the SDF?

• to develop and test ways of achieving a more sustainable way of living in a countryside of great natural beauty and diversity.
• to conserve and enhance the local characteristics of culture, wildlife, landscape, land use and community.
• sustain the social well being and economic viability of communities.

How much money is available?

£50,000 will be available in each of the three financial years 2009/10 to 20010/11. Applications can be made for small grants of less than £1,000 or larger grants of up to £25,000.

Who can apply for funding?

• community, voluntary and partnership groups
• community councils
• local authorities
• the private sector and individuals( for projects which are in the wider public interest)

What type of projects will be supported?

Projects which meet the aims of the scheme, which are to:

• conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the AONB, including the built environment.
• promote sustainable forms of social and economic development.
• promote the economic and social well-being of local communities.
• promote quiet enjoyment of the AONB.

Priority will be given to projects which:

• involve local communities and young people
• lever in contributions from other sources in cash or in kind
• overcome barriers to sustainability and promote a wider understanding of sustainability.
• promote sustainable forms of social and economic development or add value to existing sustainability projects.
• raise awareness of the AONB and generate jobs or income for communities, without damaging the landscape.
• demonstrate innovation or best practice.

Examples of projects which may be funded by SDF:

• sustainable schools projects - such as the management of grounds for wildlife; energy, waste, and traffic reduction initiatives.
• sustainable transport projects to reduce car use and improve health.
• enhancement of village open spaces for local use (eg community activities) and wildlife.
• restoration of historic features eg village pond, community orchard or traditional boundaries.
• training programmes to safeguard traditional skills through modern apprenticeship, skills exchange eg hedgelaying, stone walling, conservation management.

Grants and grant rates

• The scheme can offer project grants, management grants to support staff costs and development grants to provide a catalyst for new action or partnerships.
• The scheme will normally provide 50% of total project costs. Up to 75% will be available for eligible voluntary sector projects.
• applicants will be expected to provide at least 25% of the total project costs, either from their own funds or those of others such as European Funds like Objective 1, Lottery Funding or ‘in kind’ contributions.

How to find out more

For more information about the SDF contact David Shiel or Glyn Williams at Loggerheads Country Park on 01352 810614.

Application Form

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