Northumberland County Council awards £50k funding to help tackle climate change

Community and voluntary groups in the county are set to benefit from funding to help tackle climate change.

Over 40 applications have been made to the first round of the Northumberland Climate Change Fund, launched by the Northumberland County Council in May this year.

The fund aims to help groups including registered charities, constituted groups or clubs, community interest companies (CIC), social enterprises and parish councils make changes to become more sustainable.

The full £50k worth of funding is being awarded between the 25 successful applicants which will help with projects such as community climate change events, energy audits, feasibility studies for solar PV and heating options for community buildings, tree planting activities and EV bikes to encourage active travel.

Council leader Glen Sanderson, said: “I am impressed by the number of applications we have received. It is inspiring to see so many sustainable projects going on within Northumberland. I look forward to seeing these projects come into fruition in the coming months.

“I would like to say a big thank you to everyone involved and everyone who has come forward. Your enthusiasm in helping to tackle climate change in our county is exemplary.”

The projects support the council’s Climate Change Action Plan and demonstrate longevity as well as a commitment to engaging with the wider community.

Sophie Watkinson, director of Stomping Grounds Forest School in Prudhoe was successful in securing funding from the scheme. Sophie said: “We are delighted to have been awarded funding from the Northumberland Climate Change Fund.

“At Stomping Grounds Forest School, our decisions are led by our responsibility to the planet, and our organisation’s aim is to model sustainable practices to inspire others. The funding will go towards an accessible electric minibus which will not only remove barriers to access for groups and individuals but also reduce our environmental impact.”