LEADER funding in the North Wessex Downs

On Thursday I attended a meeting of the North Wessex Downs Council of Partners where I represent the Vale of White Horse District Council looking after our interests on the AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).

We learned about the LEADER scheme (Liaisons Entre Actions de Développement de l'Economie Rurale) which will open up opportunities for funding in rural development which comes from Europe via the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA). The idea is to help local projects get off the ground especially those helping rural communities. The North Wessex Downs Action Group successfully secured £2.5 million to help fund a wide range of activities including farm diversification, tourism activities and community groups who wish support for the local economy. If you wish to find out more click here. Funding for up to £50,000 may be requested so long as they meet the criteria set out.

It is always a pleasure to serve on this partnership where everyone works together in the best interests of the historic downland which is so close to us here in Grove and Wantage. What could be more pleasant on a beautiful day than a walk up on The Ridgeway with the whole landscape rolling before you. The Management Plan is now ready to be adopted by our respective councils in the area which will ensure that this important landscape can be enjoyed by all of us for many years to come.