A successful launch event kicked off the next round of funding from Northumberland County Council for projects addressing climate change and protecting the environment.
More than 50 people gathered at the Cramlington Community Hub to learn about how the £50,000 funding can be used to make positive changes in their projects. The event included an introduction to the fund, the Council’s new Climate Change Action plan running until 2026, net zero website and a panel discussion with key players driving environmental change across the county.
Community groups, charities, clubs, Community Interest Companies (CICs), social enterprises, town and parish councils, and faith groups are being invited to apply for grants between £250 and £5,000 to support environmental and climate change projects at www.northumberlandnetzero.uk/apply/climate-fund
Initiatives aimed at reducing emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, educating and engaging the community, and promoting waste reduction through reducing, reusing and recycling can be supported to create a positive impact on the wider community.
Cllr Glen Sanderson, Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Climate Change at the County Council, is encouraging groups to apply for funding and support.
He said: “It is fantastic that so many people turned out for the event to learn more about how they can make a real difference in their local communities.
“It is a real testament to see so much enthusiasm for sustainable change across our county. The passion and commitment shown by residents to tackle environmental challenges is truly inspiring.”
Past projects have included insulation for the Forum Cinema auditorium in Hexham and Horncliffe community pub to reduce heat loss, repair cafes in Berwick and Tynedale to help reduce waste and active travel cycling schemes in Ashington supporting active travel.
Other schemes have included outdoor kitchen workshops to promote sustainability, interactive drama performances to engage young people in environmental issues, energy efficiency measures including LED lights for buildings within the Haltwhistle Partnership, solar panels for Accomb Village Hall and an air source heat pump at Holy Island Village Hall.
Cllr Sanderson continued: “If you have an ambition to make your grassroots community project a reality, we want to support you”
This initiative is part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to climate change and environmental protection and supports its goals of making Northumberland net zero by 2040.
Applications are now open, and eligible organisations are encouraged to submit their proposals by 21 February 2025.
For more information about the Council’s net zero goals and to find out more about how you can make a difference, please go to www.northumberlandnetzero.uk