4th April 2017
Seven community organisations in Allerdale have been awarded a share of £68,000 from a fund that supports eco projects.
The funding comes from the Robin Rigg West Cumbria Fund, and supports a range of community groups helping to improve the local environment and also increase understanding of environmental issues.
The fund was set up by energy company E.ON to benefit communities close to the Robin Rigg offshore wind farm and is administered by Cumbria Community Foundation. More than £400,000 has been given out in grants since 2009.
Friends of Siddick Ponds received £15,000 to continue enhancing the site behind Dunmail Park Shopping Centre in Workington. The money will be used to improve the conservation interest of the site such as reed bed management, installing nesting boxes and planting wildflower bulbs.
West House received £10,000 to install solar panels at their ‘Grow West’ project; a 12 acre market garden centre based at Allerby. 30 adults with learning disabilities rely on ‘Grow West’ to be productive in the community, have a purposeful working week and learn personal and work skills.
Tim Morgan, E.ON Plant Manager, said: “The fund from E.ON provides assistance to voluntary or community groups in the area who are looking to use energy more sustainable or improve the environment. Our funding helps to provide a lasting benefit to the area.”
Annalee Holliday, Grants & Donor Services Officer at Cumbria Community Foundation, said: “The fund is of real value to the local community, supporting voluntary groups and charities and enabling residents to continue to build on their vibrant and thriving communities.”
Successful groups can expect to receive £1,000 – £15,000 funding. Applications for the next round of funding are open until 15th December 2017. To find out more about the Robin Rigg West Cumbria Fund click here or contact Annalee Holliday on 01900 82470 or email annalee@cumbriafoundation.org.