Partner Article

Wind farm money for groups in South East Northumberland

EDF Renewables launches the Blyth Offshore Demonstrator Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund at the Community Foundation. The Community Foundation, which operates the £55,000-a-year community benefit fund is calling on local groups within Blyth, East Bedlington, Cambois, and the Seaton Valley to apply for funding.

Applications from £5,000 to £10,000 will be considered, and in exceptional circumstances the Fund may consider applications of up to £20,000.

Pete Barrett, Senior Programme Advisor at the Community Foundation, said:

“The Blyth Offshore Demonstrator Wind Farm has the potential to make a lasting difference to communities in the Blyth, Cambois, East Bedlington, and Seaton Valley area. We’re delighted to work with EDF Renewables and a panel of local residents on this exciting opportunity.

“The Fund will operate for 25 years, or until the wind farm ceases to operate, meaning that potentially, over £1m could be awarded to community groups and charities in what is considered to be an area of disadvantage”

Nick Bradford, Head of Asset Management att EDF Renewables said: “We are fully committed to empowering local communities in the areas of which we operate.

“Through the Blyth Offshore Demonstrator Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund at the Community Foundation we can make sure that the needs of the community are met and that funding can go to the projects most in need. This is a fantastic opportunity and will make a difference to a lot of local people.”

Applications will be open to eligible organisations from 22 June 2018 to be considered by a panel of local people in September 2018. The first round of funding is due to be distributed in October 2018.

For more information or to make an application visit www.communityfoundation.org.uk/apply.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Adam Lopardo .