August 2021

Are you looking for funding to make your project happen? The Sustainable Development Fund supports projects that will contribute towards conserving, enhancing, and raising awareness of the natural beauty of the AONB, its wildlife, heritage, and its communities.  You will need to demonstrate your project supports the conservation and enhancement of this special area by providing an environmental, economic, or social benefit – ideally all three.

Anyone (individual, group, or organisation) can apply for a grant of up to £3,000 from the AONB’s Sustainable Development Fund (SDF). The fund is managed by Cannock Chase AONB on behalf of Defra.

The closing date for applications for this further round is midnight 17th October 2021 and projects must be completed by 31 March 2022.

For grants of £500 or under we can fund up to 100% of the project costs. For awards over £500 we usually ask for match funding of between 25% – 50%. This can be made up from ‘in kind’ contributions such as volunteer time or the loan of premises or equipment.

You do not have to live or work within Cannock Chase to apply but, your project must have a direct positive impact upon the AONB, have a wider public benefit, and support one or more of the priorities set out in the Cannock Chase AONB Management Plan.

Previous projects supported include heritage interpretation panels, habitat management such as heathland restoration, wildlife surveys, installation of bird and bat boxes, social history research, leaflets, and art projects.

Of the grant Fund, Richard Harris, AONB Land Management Officer commented:

“Since the scheme began the Fund has supported local conservation, community, and educational projects that conserve, enhance, and improve our understanding of the Chase’s landscape, wildlife, and rich culture and history. The grant enables people, organisations and businesses to protect, celebrate and give something back to the precious landscape we all love and cherish”.

For more information and how to apply, please see our ‘Funding for your project’ page.

Image credit: rspb-images.com