Community groups in Angus have been urged to tap into a £1 million EU funding pot or risk watch it go up in smoke.
Angus North and Mearns SNP MSP Mairi Gougeon revealed there is still a significant chunk of LEADER funding that remains uncommitted for rural projects in Angus up to 2020.
The funding, which has already awarded £600,000 to community groups with a similar amount earmarked for projects in the pipeline, has already made a significant difference to projects across Mrs Gougeon’s constituency.
The Caledonian Railway project to replace the station building at Bridge of Dun was awarded £31,800 and £13,457 went towards providing equipment for the Brechin Community Cinema.
But the programme will only run until all funds are fully committed up to or at the point the UK leaves the EU — whichever comes first.
Mrs Gougeon, who was convenor of economic development during her final term as an Angus councillor, doesn’t want this money to be lost to rural Angus.
She said: “There are some incredibly innovative community groups in Angus with great ideas to revive old buildings, to put on events to bring money into the local economy or to kick-start a project that will make a lasting difference.
“Often, though, a lot of these groups don’t know where to start when it comes to funding a project.
“Money often dictates whether an idea turns from dream into reality and LEADER funding is designed to help rural communities aim high to fulfil a project that will bring economic or social benefits to the area.
“Community groups in Angus don’t need to feel daunted by the prospect of finding or applying for external funding.
“There is fantastic support from the Angus Leader team and from the Business Angus group in Angus Council’s Economic Development department who will talk applicants through the grant opportunities. They make the process as easy as possible.
“As I understand it, there is over £1 million still left in the LEADER funding pot and it’s far better that this money is diverted to rural groups across Angus to benefit our communities than lost forever due to the UK’s exit from the EU.
“That’s why I would urge any group in Angus with an idea to improve their community to come forward and apply for funding.
“Any group that doesn’t know where to turn to can contact me and I’ll be more than happy to put them in contact with the right people.
“Aim high, dream big and never give up on your ideas — that’s the advice I would give any rural group looking to make an impact in Angus.”
