CLACKMANNANSHIRE projects that aim to improve green space in the county can apply for funding.

Central Scotland Green Network launched the £40,000 Community Project Fund 2017 on Friday, March 17

Supported by £30,000 from the Greggs Foundation and £10,000 from Central Scotland Green Network Trust (CSGNT), it will provide one-off grants of up to £1,000 to support small-scale green space initiatives and to foster community engagement in maintaining and enhancing the environment.

Keith Geddes, chair of the Central Scotland Green Network, said: “We are proud to launch the CSGN Community Project Fund which will support local groups in delivering the CSGN vision on the ground, in order to transform central Scotland into a place where the environment adds value to the economy and where people’s lives are enriched by its quality.

“We are looking forward to receiving applications for the available grants which can be used for a wide range of activities from outdoor learning and community growing through to biodiversity.

“We are also keen to hear about other creative and innovative projects which capture the imagination of the local community and encourage people to use and enjoy their local green space.”

The fund aims to increase community use of green space – particularly within disadvantaged communities – which will have a positive impact on the quality of life for residents.

At least 40 grass-roots projects will receive funding through the initiative and these can range from conservation and educational schemes, such as developing a safe natural learning space for children, community gardens, and biodiversity activities such as planting and improvements to ponds and wetlands to protect local wildlife.

Woodland arts activities and feasibility projects can also apply, as well as other new and innovative ideas which engage communities.

The 2017 CSGN Community Project Fund is administered by CSGNT in partnership with the Greggs Foundation, a charitable trust, using money raised through the carrier bag charge in Greggs stores.

Tracy Lynch, Greggs Foundation manager, said: “Supporting the CSGN Community Project Fund feels like a natural decision for the Greggs Foundation – it is perfectly aligned to our vision which is to make a difference to people in need in the heart our local communities.

“We look forward to working together and helping to improve not only the environment, but the quality of life for the local communities that will benefit from these worthwhile projects.”

Groups can apply for funds up to £1,000 for projects carried out within the CSGN boundaries and deadline for applications is Monday, May 1.

For further information or to discuss a potential application visit www.centralscotlandgreennetwork.org/cpf or contact cpf@csgnt.org.uk