First Grants Focus on Environment

Congratulation to the thirteen groups awarded funds in our first grant round.

Over £23,000 was distributed to environmental NGOs and community groups through the Leeds Parks Fund

The grants round had an environmental focus following the declaration of a Climate Emergency in Leeds last year. Applicants had to demonstrate that their project would benefit the natural environment.

Projects awarded funding include the restoration of a heavily silted pond in Gledhow Valley Woods, tree planting to promote biodiversity and provide shade around a play area in Halton, and strengthening river banks in North Leeds to alleviate flooding risk.

Martin Calvert of Friends of Gledhow Valley Woods said: “We are delighted and very grateful for the Leeds Parks Fund grant which will help us create a permanent, sustainable pond and new habitats for wildlife including newts, dragon flies, insects and butterflies.“

“The pond can be visited by the general public and we hope it will encourage local schools to get involved in our work.”

Funded projects need to be completed within 12 months.

The full list of grants recipients is: Beeston in Bloom, Boston Spa Parish Council, Collingham Beck Wood Project, DAMASQ, Friends of Cross Flatts Park, Friends of Gledhow Valley Woods, Halton in Bloom, Hyde Park Source, Kirkstall in Bloom, Leeds Coppice Workers, Ouzlewell Green in Bloom, Rodley Nature Reserve, and The Conservation Volunteers.

To read a press release about the grants awards click here

Pictured is a young volunteer from the Friends of Gledhow Valley Woods