Lottery Opportunities for Environment

The Big Lottery Fund has urged organisations to �go the extra green mile', to channel funding as part of its new �Changing Spaces' programme. The scheme focuses on encouraging local communities in England to develop their community spaces. Up to �234m in funding from the programme will become available during 2006. "We want organisations with a real understanding of the environment to help us engage local communities and deliver our funding throughout England. This will mean our funding has the greatest impact, transforming the way communities think about and use the spaces around them," said Sir Clive Booth, Chair of the Big Lottery Fund. The best projects from the public, private and voluntary sectors will be identified and supported by the Fund. "We aim to work with organisations who will act as award partners to distribute funds on our behalf or to put together portfolios of projects in the areas where they have the expertise. Funding under Changing Spaces will prioritise community spaces, local community enterprise and access to the natural environment," added Sir Clive.