Northumbrian Water is appealing for new environmental project applications before the current round of funding deadline approaches - with thousands of pounds up for grabs.
The company’s Branch Out scheme is offering project funding of up to £25k to help enhance the local natural environment for people and wildlife.
More than £530k has been invested through Northumbrian Water’s Branch Out scheme since it was launched in 2013 and over 130 local projects have been supported.
Northumbrian Water’s Conservation and Land Manager, Stuart Pudney, said: “We are immensely proud of our programme, which is helping to deliver local projects to reconnect habitats for the benefit of communities and wildlife. Building resilience is essential for supporting a healthy natural environment and for us to supply clear, great-tasting drinking water.
“It’s fantastic we can support local groups, organisations and charities in helping to make a difference to the communities we serve. I’d urge anyone with a deserving project, who is seeking funding, to apply.”
Applications for the original Branch Out funding are reviewed every six months and are welcomed from organisations, community groups and individuals from the public, private, voluntary and education sectors within the company’s operating area.
The deadline for the current round of funding is Tuesday 31 August, with grants being awarded in September.
Northumbrian Water extended its original Branch Out scheme last year - adding two new funds of Priority Habitats and Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) – with the first fund being aimed at encouraging the creation or restoration of priority habitats identified as being the most threatened, and the second to help tackle invasive non-native species.
These additional grants range from £10,000 upwards for Priority Habitats, with the current round of funding closing on Sunday 31 October and up to £15,000 for INNS, with applications reopening in January 2022.
Click here for more information on Essex & Suffolk Water’s Branch Out scheme, including the funding criteria and how to apply.