£70,000 grants to create community green spaces

Scottish farmers can apply for a share of up to £700,000 of grants designed to transform the central belt of the country.

The new funding is the latest phase of government support for the Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) Development Fund, Europe’s largest green space project.

Projects that support trees, woodlands and green infrastructure, encourage community growing or promote active travel are eligible. Lesley Ogilvy, spokeswoman for the CSGN, said while the development fund had not received any applications from landowners in the past, it would be interested in hearing from the farming community.

See also: A guide to grants for dairy and livestock farmers

“Being able to access high-quality green space can improve the health, wellbeing and confidence of people and communities. It has already made a massive difference to the lives of thousands of people in the central belt,” said Scottish environment minister Aileen McLeod, announcing the new funding.

Keith Geddes, CSGN chairman, said he was looking for certain types of projects: “They could be projects that deliver or lead to woodland enhancement, especially for community use or  local food-growing initiatives which will engage the community and encourage healthy eating.”

The funding is provided by Forestry Commission Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage, Transport Scotland and the Scottish government.

The criteria for applications can be found on the Central Scotland Green Network website.