News / Environment
Bristol Green Capital: ?1.5m fund released
A £1.5million fund for not-for-profit organisations has been released by the managers of Bristol’s European Green Capital team to deliver “long-lasting, fundamental change” in the city.
The Bristol 2015 company released the cash yesterday to mark 100 days until the city takes over its green capital mantle in January.
It follows from the launch of the Bristol 2015 Neighbourhood Partnerships Fund in June and the Bristol 2015 Small Grants Fund released earlier this month.
is needed now More than ever
Grants of between £25,000 and £50,000 are being made available in the biggest fund to be announced so far, completing a £2m package to support projects that will:
- Help homes across the city access affordable warmth;
- Create nature corridors across the city for wildlife and green spaces to thrive;
- Promote reuse, repair and reducing materials, especially plastic;
- Promote active travel such as walking and cycling;
- Grow food across the city, and help people access affordable local food.
Andrew Garrad, Chairman of Bristol 2015 Ltd, said: “Bristol is the home of some extremely innovative green organisations and we want to give them the chance to reach their full potential, helping to create long-lasting change in the city, as well as showcasing Bristol’s reputation as a centre for sustainable innovation on an international stage.
Any Bristol based, ‘not for profit’ organisation can become a member of the Green Capital Partnership and apply. All applicants must return an “intention to bid” by October 10 and submit their full application by November 5. Applicants will be notified as to whether they have been successful or not on December 24. Applications for a grant can be made by visiting: www.bristol2015.co.uk/get-involved/apply-grant-funding/strategic-grants-fund or by calling0117 922 3711.
The announcement came on the day new criticisms of the way the Green Capital programme was being managed were made.
Writing for Bristol24/7, Liberal Democrat councillor Christian Martin said businesses and the public had been “kept in the dark”.
“As we get closer and closer to 2015 we are still left without detailed knowledge of any meaningful events that are open to the public to enjoy,” he said.
“It is imperative that we have a citywide programme of events set up for the year; its benefits should be achievable for everyone.”
Last week, it emerged a reshuffle of the key organisations charged with delivering Bristol’s year as European Green Capital had taken place after a “summer of tension” in which communications broke down between groups involved in showcasing the city’s green credentials.
The Bristol 2015 company headed by £100,000 a year chief executive officer Kris Donaldson has had a number of roles removed from its remit, with two of George Ferguson’s closest team members at City Hall becoming directly responsible for delivering parts of the green capital year.
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