Charitable groups in and around the Kirkby Moor Wind Farm are invited to apply for funding of up to £10,000.
The Kirkby Moor development was one of the UK’s first wind farms, coming online in 1993. Since the Kirkby Moor Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund was established with Cumbria Community Foundation in 2009, more than £42,000 has been invested into worthwhile projects including the multi-use games area in Kirkby-in-Furness, new footpaths and cycleways and improvements to Grizebeck Village Hall.
Last year, the wind farm was granted permission to continuing operating until 2027, which also increased the annual donation to the community benefit fund from £3,555 to £24,000 (indexed linked).
Ventient Energy, commented: “We are delighted to work with Cumbria Community Foundation to continue supporting local communities around Kirkby Moor Wind Farm through our Benefit Fund.”
“Ventient is committed to bringing prosperity to the local areas beyond the generation of renewable energy. In the past we have witnessed the positive impact of the Benefit Fund and we place great trust in the local councils that work tirelessly to allow their communities to flourish.”
Kirkby-in-Furness Community Centre is celebrating after recently receiving £10,000 from the Kirkby Moor Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund.
The money will be used towards fitting out the newly redeveloped centre on Lady Moyra Incline, including improvements to the kitchen, toilets and security and fire system.
David Anderson, Chairman said: “We were fortunate to raise more than £200,000 to extend and refurbish the building. This latest award of £10,000 will ensure we can fit out the facilities to a high standard.
“The Community Centre has become more sustainable as a leisure and recreational asset, providing a vital community amenity. We have football, cricket, bowling and tennis teams all playing in local leagues, and it will now be possible to add indoor activities, improving the overall health and wellbeing of local residents.”
Annalee Holliday, Grants & Donor Services Officer at Cumbria Community Foundation, said: “This Fund provides a valuable, long-term, sustainable and reliable source of income for the local communities in Kirkby Moor. The support from Ventient Energy provides assistance to groups in the area who are helping to meet the priority needs of their community.
“It is flexible funding that can address what is really important to communities and we’re delighted to administer this funding which has been making a difference to the communities surrounding Kirkby Moor.”
The Fund is open for applications from community groups and charities within the area of benefit. Eligible projects must be in the 8km radius of the wind farm. More information can be found at www.cumbriafoundation.org/fund/kirkby-moor-wind-farm-community-benefit-fund/
