Cottonworth Vineyard host to Loddon and Test LAG
Last week, Cottonworth Vineyard near Stockbridge hosted the Loddon and Test Local Action Group meeting. The group is made up of individuals working together to fund projects that help improve their local economy.
The funding is part of a scheme known as the LEADER programme which is designed to support the future of UK farming, to assist rural businesses to grow and develop. It uses money from the European Union, through the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE), to help benefit the countryside and rural lifestyles by developing a rural economy, boosting job creation and encouraging communities to come together. It is a strand of rural funding which is controlled at local level by local people.
To be considered for the funding projects must show how they will create jobs, develop rural businesses, support the rural economy and community. They must also demonstrate a sustainable approach taking into account environmental sustainability, social sustainability and economic sustainability.
If you are involved in a project you think may qualify and live in the Loddon and Test area contact Emily Preston for a chat and advice. There is also similar support available from Winchester and the New Forest.
Emily Preston (Loddon and Test)
01962 845560
Ken Brown (FieldFare)
01962 848588
Sally Igra (New Forest)
023 8028 5588