Cash boost for community energy schemes

Applications are still open for projects in the county to receive Shire climate change grants of up to £5,000 through the scheme, run by Leicestershire County Council.

The initiative is designed to help projects in the county wanting to improve the energy efficiency of their community buildings by reducing carbon emissions and contributing towards minimising the effects of climate change.

For further information and to apply for a grant, call Nailesh Ramaiya on 0116 305 8111 or visit www.leicestershire.gov.uk/community-grants

Alternatively, you can e-mail [email protected]

Councillor Pam Posnett, cabinet member for communities said: “These grants are available to community groups that want to do all they can to help the environment.

“We welcome applications from organisations and groups in the county who want to improve the energy efficiency of their buildings, as well as reduce running costs.”

Eligible projects can include energy audits, installation of heating systems, roof or cavity wall insulation and renewable systems.

The sustainable climate change grants have already benefitted a number of organisations in the county including parish councils, community and faith groups, charities and village hall management facilities.

One village hall to benefit is at Cotesbach, near Lutterworth and John McDermott said: “We received a grant towards installing LED lighting for all our rooms. Around 4,800 people use the hall and have been delighted with the refurbishment made possible by the Shire climate change grant.”