Grant fund open to applications  

Grants are now available to people in the National Park for projects which benefit the local community

People or local organisations looking to improve the environment in the National Park, in ways that will also benefit local communities or the local economy, are being invited to apply to the Sustainable Development Fund, which this year has a budget of £100,000.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority is looking to award up to 15 grants before the end of March.

An example of a recent project supported by the fund is “WingIt” in Swaledale, which has seen the creation of nest sites for swifts, swallows and house martins.  

Sustainable Development Fund support has enabled WingIt to publish an information leaflet on protecting nest sites during building work, as well as to install QR codes at seven locations – from Keld to Fremington – so people can find out more about the birds, which characterise Dales villages and towns at this time of year.  WingIt is also broadcasting live video from swallow nests in Reeth and Low Row (see pictures).

Other recent projects to be supported by the Sustainable Development Fund include Settle Primary School’s sensory playground, accessibility improvements at Ingleborough Cave in Clapham, and Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway’s plan to restore a passenger footbridge at Bolton Abbey Railway Station.

Member Champion for Sustainable Development at the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, Richard Foster, said: “The Sustainable Development Fund supports people to conserve natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage, and to increase access to the special qualities of the National Park. 

“Individuals, businesses, community groups and voluntary sector bodies can all apply and I would encourage people to please get in touch if they have a project idea. Call 01969 652337 or email SDF@yorkshiredales.org.uk to make an enquiry.”