New applications welcomed as Junior CCF initiative announced

Glasgow MSP Bob Doris today met with Environment and Climate Change Minister Stewart Stevenson and P4 and P5 pupils from Chirnsyde Primary at Lambhill Stables in Maryhill.

The Climate Challenge Fund (CCF) which supports community-led action to reduce emissions, along with a new Junior CCF for under 18s, officially opened it’s ninth application process today.

Lambhill Stables previously received over £360,000 to create a community hub providing training and educational opportunities to local residents in the areas of gardening, renewable energies and sustainable transport.

Mr Doris said: "I am absolutely delighted to be here today to look at the excellent progress at Lambhill Stables. It really is a terrific resource for the local community. It was also truly fitting that the minister should make this announcement at Lambhill Stables, a project which has benefitted from the CFF.

"Not only has the Scottish Government today confirmed that the CCF will be worth £10.3 million each year over the Spending Review period, the new Junior CCF for organisations representing the under 18s will make a positive impact in the lives of our youngsters. I will be urging community youth organisations across Glasgow to come forward with applications, and to do so quickly. I would be delighted to help any local groups to put in a bid."

Mr Stevenson said: "The Junior CCF is an exciting addition to this overall project and I look forward to seeing the innovative ideas put forward by Scotland's children to reduce our carbon footprint. The ambition of Junior CCF is clear - to provide the means for the next generation to make a real difference on an issue we know they are passionate about.

"Since 2008, 345 individual communities across Scotland have received awards through CCF and their contribution in tackling climate change is greatly acknowledged. Our Economic Strategy and Spending Review makes strong references to the importance of grass roots action such as this if we are to move towards a truly low carbon economy.

"Lambhill Stables is a great example of how CCF offers real community benefits. It has brought the practical benefits of low carbon living into this area making it relevant and making a positive difference to people's lives."

David Cruickshank, Executive Director at Lambhill Stables, said: "CCF funding has granted Lambhill Stables a revenue stream allowing us to run a programme of sustainable activities from the newly refurbished B-listed Stables Building and the Community Garden.

"This has enabled us to involve the community in a spectrum of activities ranging from active transportation such as healthy walks and cycling, energy awareness, community gardening, home grown food production and preparation, and the everyday actions we can all take to tackle climate change. In turn this programme has contributed to the development of a sense of community ownership and cohesion."

Notes:

The Scottish Government has confirmed the commitment to CCF at £10.3 million each year over the Spending Review period.

Junior CCF will aim to award ten per cent of the CCF towards carbon reducing projects working with young people (18 and under).

This is the ninth round of CCF funding.

For more information on the CCF, please see here.

For more information on Lambhill Stables, please visit: http://www.lambhillstables.org/