Local Action Group secure 1.4million funding

Forest and Tewkesbury Borough Local Action Group (LAG), has secured £1.4 million from the European Rural Development Programme to help support new jobs and economic growth in rural areas.

The successful bid submitted to the Managing Authority, Defra, was developed by the LAG partnership with support from Forest of Dean and Tewkesbury Borough Councils as part of a new joint initiative. The partnership includes representatives from private, public and voluntary organisations, representing different sections of the community.

As part of the bid process, the group produced a strategy outlining the rural growth needs across the two districts and potential for investment - and as part of this, a series of public consultation events were held to get the views of the local communities. 

The programme will be able to fund a wide range of themes including farm productivity/diversification, business development, rural tourism, rural services, culture/heritage and forestry.  All projects must make a measurable contribution to the local economy through the creation of new jobs or aiding increased growth. 

Organisations entitled to bid for funding can include, sole traders, micro businesses, small businesses, social enterprises, tourism providers including attractions, leisure facilities and accommodation provision, farming communities, woodland owners, social enterprises, parish and town councils, local services provision and special interest community groups. The programme will be open to applications in June/July 2015.

Tewkesbury Borough Council’s Lead Member for Economic Development and Promotion Cllr Dave Waters said: “This is a significant opportunity for local people to contribute towards their future either through investment to expand a business, provide a missing local service, or to get involved in a project that raises the profile of the area and brings in visitors or makes it a better place for locals. Equally, local people could be beneficiaries by securing a new job or better position and helping businesses to prosper and play a part in generating wealth for all.”     

Councillor Diana Edwards the Lead Cabinet member from the Forest of Dean District Council said: “It is a real feather in in the cap of the Local Action Group, who have been successful once again in securing EU funds for the area. This programme will help businesses to diversify and develop; community projects to provide better access to local services; developing and promoting local produce/products and projects that increase awareness and use our natural landscape to promote healthy living and encourage visitors.”

The Local Action Group will make funding contributions of £5,000 upwards. The average award will be around £27,000. Match funding is required.

For further information contact Neil Batt, LAG Programme Manager on 01594 812608 or neil.batt@fdean.gov.uk