NEWS

Money with Gornal's name on it? Our Member of Parliament, Ross Cranston QC MP, is reminding local community groups that funding for their projects may be available through the national lottery. "According to information published by the House of Commons Library, Dudley North has received £16.9 million - around the average per constituency" said Mr. Cranston. "There is money available for organizations in the constituency to access. I urge them, if they have not already done so, to find out whether they can qualify for lottery funding. Although there are a range of lottery distribution bodies, there is a joint helpline (0845 2750000) and a website ( www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk) that can help." An example of the kind of work the lottery supports is the groundbreaking award of £372,198 from the New Opportunities Fund, according to a press release yesterday from Dudley Council. The 'Fair Share - Transforming Your Space' funding was announced last month to support and develop existing and emerging environmental community groups in their efforts to protect, restore and enhance their local parks and other green spaces. A special meeting has been called for Thursday 3rd April 2003 at Saltwells EDC, Bowling Green Road, Netherton, Dudley, DY2 9LY at 7:30pm to discuss the proposals. All local environmental groups are welcome. The project will involve a programme of physical improvements and activities to reflect community needs. The projects must aim to help local communities to become self-supporting and sustainable and help them to make an active contribution to local regeneration. It is hoped this lottery funding will help existing groups to broaden their membership and encourage new groups emerge. If local groups would like to learn more about the programme please contact; Sally Orton Dudley Council Culture and Community Claughton House Blowers Green Road Dudley DY2 8UZ

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