The Scottish Government writes:<\/p>\n
A multi-million pound fund to develop green spaces in some of Scotland\u2019s most deprived areas has been announced by Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Jobs and Fair Work Keith Brown.<\/p>\n
The money \u2013 which comes from EU funding – will support projects like new nature reserves and parks and green spaces in urban areas, benefiting communities across Scotland.\u00a0 With match funding from partners the total overall investment will be up to \u00a320 million.<\/p>\n
The Canal & North Gateway site in Port Dundas in Glasgow is one of the first two projects to be supported by the programme, which is being delivered by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH).<\/p>\n
Visiting the project, Mr Brown said:\u2019This \u00a38.25 million represents a unique opportunity to create green infrastructure on an unprecedented scale and will bring benefits to areas where it is most needed.\u00a0 Publicly accessible green spaces are hugely important \u2013 especially in our urban areas. This European funding is specifically targeted at areas with a population of over 10,000 and will be channelled into some of Scotland\u2019s most disadvantaged communities. I look forward to seeing applicants take advantage of the significant opportunity this represents.<\/p>\n
\u2018We all know that in June, Scotland voted to remain in the EU and the Scottish Government firmly believes that membership delivers many social, economic and cultural benefits for individuals, business and communities. This Green Infrastructure Fund is yet another illustration of these advantages and is why maintaining our EU membership and preserving this kind of funding for the long term is a top priority.\u2019<\/p>\n
The Green Infrastructure Fund is looking for projects, involving communities right from the start, throughout delivery and into the future. Projects should either benefit nature, biodiversity and ecosystems, address environmental quality, flooding and climate change, involve communities and increase participation, increase place attractiveness and competitiveness or improve health and wellbeing.<\/p>\n
Ian Ross, Chairman of SNH\u2019s Board said:\u00a0 \u2018We\u2019re delighted to be leading on the Green Infrastructure Fund, as we\u2019re ideally placed, given our existing work, to advise on green space and green networks. This scale of funding for green infrastructure has never been available before in Scotland and it should make a real difference to people\u2019s lives by providing wonderful green spaces where they can experience and enjoy nature in their local areas.\u2019<\/p>\n
View the press release<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" The Scottish Government has announced an \u00a38.25 million EU green infrastructure fund, which is designed to create green infrastructure on an unprecedented scale. The Scottish Government writes: A multi-million pound fund to develop green spaces in some of Scotland\u2019s most … Continue reading