Biodiversity funding scheme launched for third year

The swift tower at the Eels Foot Inn in Suffolk previously received funding from the Nature First small grant scheme

Organisers of biodiversity projects are being urged to apply for grants from a funding scheme which is being rolled out for a third time.

The East Suffolk Greenprint Forum started the Nature First small grant scheme in 2021 after getting financial backing from East Suffolk Council.

Over the next two years the scheme awarded grants totalling £19,727 to 26 projects across the district.

The scheme has now opened for new applications and eligible projects could include work to restore existing habitats or create new ones, provide nesting or roosting places for birds, pollinators and other animals, or activities to help people learn more about biodiversity.

Cllr Sally Noble, East Suffolk Council’s Green Party cabinet member for the environment, said: "These grants are designed to support communities to improve local biodiversity"

Examples of projects that have already received funding from the scheme included the Pathways Care Farm, which created raised beds and ran a course to teach pupils, parents and staff at Beccles Primary Academy about growing organic vegetables.

The Saxmundham Green Team bought tools to help with its ongoing conservation work in the town.

The Waveney Bird Club built an eight-metre high tower to provide nesting for swifts at the Eels Foot Inn in Eastbridge.

'Ecological emergency'

Councillor Sally Noble, East Suffolk Council’s Green Party cabinet member for the environment, said: "These grants are designed to support communities to improve local biodiversity through projects which include conservation, environmental education, nature restoration and recovery.

"Collaboration is crucial to tackling climate change and every positive action can make a difference.

"I would urge groups eager to contribute to apply for this financial assistance to help build resilience and be a force for change in addressing the biodiversity and ecological emergency."

Jane Healey, chair of the Greenprint Forum, said: "I am delighted to relaunch this Small Grant Scheme Nature First which has already benefited a number of local projects taking positive action for nature.

"I hope that this proves to be of benefit to existing, new and emerging projects alike, that contribute to progress towards the Greenprint Forum’s goal of an East Suffolk where the value of nature is recognised by the majority, visitors are attracted because of it, and everyone actively cares for it."