A new community fund worth £40,000-a-year to local groups in the Scottish Borders is now open for applications. It follows the start of construction at SSE’s Langhope Rig wind farm near Roberton.
Community groups within the three host council areas of Lilliesleaf, Ashkirk & Midlem, Upper Teviotdale & Borthwick Water and Ettrick & Yarrow are encouraged to apply for grants from the Langhope Rig Community Fund.
The fund has been established for charitable and community projects within the three host community council boundaries. It is expected that £1million will be invested in local initiatives in the Scottish Borders over the 25 year lifespan of the wind farm.
All decisions on grant awards will be made by an independent panel consisting of members of each community, including community councillors.
A well-attended information event was held in Ettrickbridge in October to provide further details about the fund. Interested local groups from all three community council areas learnt about the funding process and discussed possible funding ideas.
Ciara Wilson, SSE Community Investment Advisor, said:“We are delighted to announce the launch of the Langhope Rig Community fund and look forward to helping local projects realise their ambitions.
“The purpose of the fund is to support activities that will enhance wellbeing and quality of life for local people as well as promote community spirit and bring people together. “Over the lifetime of the project, the fund has the potential to provide real benefits to people in this part of the Borders and foster vibrant, sustainable communities."
The first deadline for applications is 17 January 2014 and further information on eligibility and the application process can be found on the SSE website: Community Funds - Langhope Rig
In addition to the local fund the SSE Borders Sustainable Development Fund will be launched next spring. It will be open to applications from wider community groups in the Scottish Borders council area.
This fund is also valued at £40,000 per annum or £1million over 25 years, and will bring significant community benefits to the Scottish Borders region. It will specifically support projects which promote skills development, community energy developments or improve the built and natural environment.
There will be a further announcement on the official launch date for the SSE Borders Sustainable Development Fund in the New Year.
The 16MW, 10-turbine Langhope Rig wind farm is currently under construction with the site due to be operational by late 2014.