The Sustainable Development Fund is a grant scheme to encourage sustainable ways of enjoying and living in the New Forest National Park. To be eligible for the Fund your project must demonstrate that it will have a positive effect on the environmental, economic and community wellbeing of the New Forest and further at least one of the National Park purposes:
- to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the Park; and
- to promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the Park's special qualities by the public.
The Fund accepts applications from individuals, businesses, organisations and community groups from the public, private and voluntary sector. Applications are assessed by a Panel made up of representatives from the local area who have a wide range of interests and knowledge including community, local business, environment, wildlife conservation and tourism. The Sustainable Development Fund can finance a maximum of 75% of total project costs, although this rate is likely to be 40% if you are a commercial business. It is strongly recommended that you contact the Sustainable Development Fund Officer for advice on the eligibility of your project prior to completing an application.
More information can be found on the New Forrest National Park website:
www.newforestnpa.gov.uk.