Green grants up for grabs

communities where it is needed most, and we are pleased that through this funding we are able to continue supporting a wide range of environmental enhancements across the central belt to improve the lives of the people living and working there.”

Now in its 10th year, the CSGN Development fund has distributed nearly £7million to over 160 projects.

Env i ronment Minister Mair i Gougeon said: “The CSGN touches on many different aspects of the Scottish Government ’ s agenda from the environment, to the economy and health.

By focusing on disadvantaged communities, the CSGN Development Fund plays an important role in empowering communities to create places that are inclusive, resilient and a source of local pride that encourage people to get out and get active.

“I hope to see a wide range of projects being supported by this latest round of funding.”

The Better Views project puts residents in the lead role to deliver wellbeing themed social gardening workshops.

This is helping people transform vacant greenspace into positive community spaces containing orchards, raised beds, soft fruit forests, wildflower meadows and regular workshop activities, open to all.

Kevin Mason, project development manager at The Leamy Foundation, added: “CSGN funding has enabled residents to establish Better Views; a community led social gardening network across several locations in Alexandria, West Dunbartonshire. It has led to residents taking an active part in the development of their local community, establishing three new community led groups.”

“Ninety-two percent of participating residents reported a positive change in their wellbeing. Such has been the level of interest and participation, residents have extended their activities into local schools and nurseries, creating growing spaces and working with teachers and families to deliver sow and grow lessons.”

The closing date for applications to the CSGN Development Fund is March 4, 2019. For further information please visit www.centralscotlandgreennetwork. org. The CSGN Development Fund is administered by the Central Scotland Green Network Trust and supported by Scottish Government, Transport Scotland, Forestry Commission Scotland and Scottish Natural Heritage.

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