Caerphilly county borough is a surprisingly rural area, with over 75% of the county borough classified as rural. This includes woodlands and meadows; wetlands, rivers and ponds and 5 country parks. Many of the rural wards are set to benefit from funding which is being made available through the RuralDevelopment Plan for Wales 2007 – 2013.
New rural tourism, local produce and recreation projects in Caerphilly CountyBorough can benefit from two new grant programmes. This financial assistance is specifically aimed at businesses in the rural wards and will be to a maximum of £30,000. The programme will run until February 2011.
- The Rural Industry and Produce Innovation Grant can fund capital and revenue projects for developing new ideas and products in the areas of local food, timber, craft and rural skills, marketing, promotion and fostering a 'buy local' attitude.
- The Tourism and Recreation Advancement Fund can help businesses in the Tourism and Leisure sectors that capitalise on Caerphilly county borough's local rural environment and heritage. This financial assistance can be towards developing new activities and services in those sectors.
These grants are part funded through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD): Europe Investing in Rural Areas and the Welsh Assembly Government.
The rural wards that have qualified for support, as designated by the Welsh Assembly Government, are:
Aber Valley, Argoed, Bedwas, Machen and Trehomas, Crumlin, Darran Valley, Llanbradach, Maesycwmmer, Moriah (Rhymney), Nelson, New Tredegar, St Cattwg, St James, Twyn Carno, Ynysddu.
For more information contact Countryside and Landscape Services on 01443 838632.
