Community groups in the Kincardine and Mearns area are being urged to take advantage of two grant schemes funded by Aberdeenshire Council. 

The Area Committee Budget and Regeneration Priority Area Small Village Grant Scheme both have funds available for the financial year 2013/14. 

With no possibility of carrying forward the funding to the next financial year, community groups are being urged to take advantage of the schemes. 

Both of the funds are aimed at supporting local groups and organisations to realise local projects.

A maximum of £4,000 is available from the area committee budget, while up to £2,500 can be applied for from the regeneration fund. Both funds can be used for the same project, ideally as part of a wider funding package with a maximum contribution normally being 50%. 

Funding from the regeneration fund is only available to communities and groups based on Kincardineshire’s coastal strip south of Stonehaven.

The funds can be used to support a whole range of initiatives, including:

· Transport initiatives

· Information and communication

· Environmental projects

· Civic pride and village presentation

· Cultural and historical projects

· Tourism development

· Event development

· Improving community facilities

· Improving community assets and facilities

· Village enhancement 

Chair of Kincardine and Mearns Area Committee, Councillor Carl Nelson, said: “These funding schemes can provide vital assistance to local groups who are working on a project which will benefit their local area. 

“They are available on such a wide range of projects, I would urge any groups in the Kincardine and Mearns area looking for financial support to get in touch and find out more.”

North Kincardine Councillor Ian Mollison said: “The area fund supports a wide range of projects each year. It is important that the funds benefit as many groups as possible before the end of the financial year. 

“I would like to see more groups in North Kincardine – such as in Newtonhill Portlethe, and the rural area – apply.” 

Details of funding criteria are available from the area office at Viewmount on Arduthie Road in Stonehaven. Alternatively, for more information, email:

karen.mcwilliam@aberdeenshire.gov.uk

or phone 01569 768202.