Local MP Urges Coastal CommOCAL MP URGES COASTAL COMMUNITIES TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FUNDING

Published date : 18 October, 2021

Gordon MP Richard Thomson has urged coastal communities to take full advantage of money available to it under new arrangements brought in by the Scottish Government.

This is the second year of the Coastal Communities Challenge Fund (CCCF), which is funded by the Scottish Government’s disbursement of revenue generated by Crown Estate Scotland.

Grants are being targeted at community groups, third sector organisations and small businesses on Aberdeenshire’s coastline and can fund a range of activities with positive economic, social or environmental impacts.

This year’s grants will be targeted towards activities or infrastructure which meet the following priorities:
•   Supporting the development of active travel routes along, to and from the coastline
•   Developing the coastal economy and sustainable tourism
•   Creating or enhancing community, leisure and recreational facilities
•   Safeguarding, restoring or enhancing the coastal environment

Welcoming the opening of the fund for applications, Richard Thomson MP said:

“This is the second year of this new arrangement which sees coastal communities receive 100% of revenue generated from the Crown Estate’s marine assets out to 12 nautical miles around Scotland, enabling communities to better fund and support local projects and initiatives.

“I’m delighted the Scottish Government has acted to ensure the revenue from the Crown Estate brings financial benefits to communities around our coast and enables more decisions to be taken at the local level. I would urge community groups and small businesses to apply to the fund if they have any project they feel would benefit.”

Grants between £2,500 and £25,000 will be available, and applicants must make a minimum 10% match funding contribution to projects. Small business applicants must contribute 50% match funding.

Due to budget conditions, all projects must be completed by 31st March 2022.

The deadline for submission of applications is Monday 15th November, and potential applicants can access the application form and guidance at nesflag.org.uk/CCCF

Applicants are also encouraged to get in touch for more information and support at [email protected]

[Photo of Newburgh, Aberdeenshire, courtesy of Aberdeenshire Council]

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