Local community and environmental regeneration projects across the Ballynahinch area have been invited to apply for up to £50k of funding thanks to the successful Alpha Programme.
Launched in 2008, the programme distributes funding through the Landfill tax credits scheme to a range of community and biodiversity projects.
The project eligibility area has now been extended from a 10 mile to 15 mile radius of Mullaghglass Landfill site on the outskirts of Lisburn. The funding is made up of a combination of Landfill Tax and direct contributions from Alpha Resource Management Ltd.
Over 110 successful projects and almost £4million have been awarded through the initiative to date and the programme aims to enrich local communities through sports clubs, community gardens, play areas and other environmental regeneration projects.
Commenting on the extension of the programme radius, Warren Bell from Alpha Resource Management said: “Tax on landfill credits were originally introduced to reduce waste and encourage companies to shift to more sustainable methods of waste management.
“As an award winning industry leader, we are committed to investing through this programme. Its popularity and its ability to transform derelict spaces, strengthen communities and improve local wildlife can only grow further as we include the new areas of Antrim, Lurgan, Ballynahinch and Comber.
The Alpha Programme currently awards successful groups four times per year following an application process. In addition a new Small Grants Programme has been introduced and is designed to support smaller community amenity and biodiversity projects, with between £3k and £10k available.
Richard Rogers from Groundwork NI added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for more local groups to get involved and make a real difference within their community. Both streams of funding can make a significant difference for local residents and the environment. We have seen many varied projects bring positive change to villages, towns and countryside over the last eight years.
“It is also encouraging to see many groups across Northern Ireland have a clear vision to change their local surroundings through innovative community work or projects that support the environment. And, with our expertise we can continue to mentor these projects to ensure they flourish and create a lasting impact across the province for future generations.”
Applications for the next round of Alpha Programme funding close on Friday 27 January.
Anyone considering applying to the Programme is encouraged to contact Groundwork NI to discuss their application prior to submission. Application forms and a map showing the eligible project area are available from Groundwork NI’s website:
