Funding for local environmental initiatives

Northumberland County Council is offering funding from a pot of £50,000 for projects aiming to help the environment. 

Up to £5,000 is available from the Council’s Environment and Climate Fund to support community initiatives such as reducing emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, educating and engaging the local community, and promoting waste reduction through reducing, reusing and recycling. 

Applications are now open at https://www.northumberlandnetzero.uk/apply/climate-fund and eligible organisations are encouraged to submit their proposals by 27 February 2026. 

Community groups, charities, constituted groups and clubs, Community Interest Companies (CICs), social enterprises, town and parish councils, and faith groups are being invited to apply. 

The Council is also running two online drop-in sessions for those with questions about the application. One session will be held on Wednesday 11 February between 12noon and 1pm and the other will be held Wednesday 18 February between 6pm and 7pm. 

Cllr John Riddle, Cabinet Member Environment, Rural and Farming at the County Council, is encouraging groups to apply for funding and support.  

He said: “It is fantastic to be once again offering financial support through our Environment and Climate Fund. This goes towards helping our communities within Northumberland take steps towards becoming more sustainable and give back to the environment. 

“Every project we support makes a difference whether that’s improving energy provision, encouraging sustainable transport or raising awareness.  

“I’m always excited to hear about the fantastic projects happening across the county and would encourage people to apply for this funding so we can support you in making positive changes to your community.” 

Past projects have included low-energy lighting and an energy monitoring system for Holy Island Village Hall, Carbon Literacy training at the Queens Hall in Hexham, a solar water heater and solar battery charger for Blyth Riverside Resource Centre and enhanced water quality monitoring for Little Shore in Amble. 

The funding forms part of the Council’s ongoing commitments through its Environmental Policy Statement and Action Plan to protect and enhance the environment and supports its goal to making Northumberland a net zero county by 2040.