£360,000 in grants available for low-carbon schemes in South Cambridgeshire villages

A Net Zero Villages Grant scheme, offering a total funding pot of £362,547, has been launched by South Cambridgeshire District Council to help, it says, rural communities to become low-carbon, more sustainable and more resilient to the effects of climate change.

The initiative, funded by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, provides grants ranging from £20,000 to £100,000 to support community-led projects.

The Net Zero Villages scheme will fund capital projects under the following themes:

- Energy efficiency and generation – Examples include installing insulation, LED lighting, solar panels, wind turbines, or battery storage for renewable energy.

- Low-carbon transport – Initiatives such as community-run electric shuttle buses or other sustainable transport solutions.

- Nature-based solutions – Projects like green roofs, walls, or tree planting to cool and enhance community spaces.

The grant is open to community groups, parish councils, and rural businesses across South Cambridgeshire.

Eligible areas include villages outside the Cambridge built-up area. See the map at tinyurl.com/3jbpzufr for details.

Unfortunately, more urban areas such as Milton, Histon, Impington, and Teversham are not eligible for this funding.

Dr Nik Johnson, mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, said: “I’m glad to see this funding available to support villages in the region for common-sense initiatives that will help us to lower carbon and secure a more sustainable future.”

Cllr Brian Milnes, lead cabinet member for the environment, added: “This is a fantastic opportunity to transform our district’s villages into greener, cleaner, and more sustainable communities.

“By securing funding through this scheme, you can make a lasting impact and invest in the future of your community.

“Let’s work together to take a significant step toward achieving a net zero future for South Cambridgeshire.”

Applications are now open and must be submitted by 11:59pm on Sunday, 26 January, 2025. Detailed eligibility criteria and application guidance can be found in the Grant Criteria and Guidance document, available at scambs.gov.uk/net-zero-villages-grant.

For further details or to discuss your project ideas, contact the climate and environment team at climateandenvironment@ scambs. gov.uk.