Sustainable Development Fund
Supporting our vibrant communities
Update 21 May 2012: The SDF has temporarily been suspended and we are therefore not accepting any further applications at this time.
To discuss other forms of funding support please call Clive Wickham, Partnerships and Community Coordinator on 01539 792661 or email clive.wickham@lakedistrict.gov.uk
Latest news
In 2010 – 2011 our SDF received 23 applications and awarded to 20. The total amount awarded was over £200,000, varying from £250 to £45,000. The total worth of all projects was more than £900,000.
March 2011: We have given Witherslack family-run Celtic Horse logging £2000 towards an eight wheel trailer. This equipment will be used to move timber in and around sensitive land areas using their Belgian Ardenner horses.
Jan 2011: The Lake District National Park Partnership has been successful in securing a grant worth £43,000 over three years to help deliver specific actions in the Partnership’s Plan.
Oct 2010: We awarded Thirlmere Village Hall £7,222 to support their decision to install a wood pellet boiler to meet the heating and hot water requirements of the hall
Oct 2010: This Car – a car share scheme, operating as a not for profit social enterprise. offers another low carbon transport option for people living in or around the Lake District. Cars are currently operating in Kendal and Staveley but the scheme is looking to expand to other local communities
Sept 2010: SDF has teamed up with Cumbria Waste Management Environment Trust (CWMET) and CAfS to provide a ‘one stop shop’ approach to funding and advice for energy efficiency matters for community buildings.
If your project relates to the energy efficiency of a community building, such as a school or village hall, please contact Cumbria Action for Sustainability (CAfS) on 01768 210276 for further information.
What is sustainable development?
Sustainable development is based on the idea that the quality of people's lives and the state of our communities, is affected by economic, social and environmental factors. The links between them influences our quality of life now and in the future.
What is the Lake District Sustainable Development Fund?
With help from Defra we have a grant scheme to support projects that combine economic, social and environmental benefits and have positive impact on future generations.
Projects that help support the Vision for the National Park, consider new ways of living and working that look after the Lake District National Park or projects that increase understanding and enjoyment of the Lake District’s special qualities are particularly suited to funding.
How does the SDF link with climate change?
In line with the Vision for the National Park and our Climate Change Action Plan, the SDF is keen to encourage projects that recognise and address the effects of global warming and increasing energy consumption.
Climate change is directly linked to the increase of carbon in the atmosphere. Our actions in everyday life, from using electric and gas at home, to driving to work all have a direct impact. However we can all take steps to reduce our carbon footprint. As an organisation, we aim to lessen our carbon emission by up to 100 per cent by 2012. Find our more in our Climate change section.
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