Clwyd West AM Darren Millar has welcomed news that groups in his constituency are among those set to benefit thanks to the much awaited first round of awards from the Gwynt y Môr Offshore Wind Farm Community Fund.
Seven not-for-profit groups are set to receive up to £10,000 each, from funding directly linked to the operation of the second largest wind farm in the world.
Colwyn Bay Rotary is one of the groups set to benefit. It will receive funds towards developing a programme of dingy sailing in the bay of Colwyn in partnership with Royal Yachting Association Wales, Conwy CBC Sports Development and key partners. It will provide sailing opportunities for target groups within the bay linked to Porth Eirias and Colwyn Watersports.
Meanwhile Carers Outreach Service will be awarded funds towards a part time Carer Support Officer to work with some of 900 unpaid carers in Conwy.
Darren, who has been an Honorary Member of Colwyn Bay Rotary Club for six years, said:
“I am delighted that groups within my constituency will benefit from this new funding. I was particularly pleased to hear that Colwyn Bay Rotary are to receive funding to develop their work further – this is great news for them as they celebrate their 88th Anniversary.”
Paul Cowling, Managing Director of RWE Innogy UK said:
“I am excited to see the funds come through and just three months after the wind farm’s official opening. This is testament to Community & Voluntary Support Conwy who manage the fund independently and have selected a panel of experts to assess each application received.
“The scale of the funding available from the Gwynt y Môr Fund is a real opportunity to make a significant positive impact on the sustainable development of the area and is a genuine force for good.
“We are already seeing the impact the Gwynt y Môr Tourism Fund is making in North Wales, with the delivery of projects like the ramped access to Rhyl beach and Green Links. I am looking forward to seeing these latest awards in action, supporting local organisations and empowering them to continue with their critical work.”
The fund is independently managed by Community & Voluntary Support Conwy (CVSC). An independent advisory panel is in place, comprising of community representatives from Conwy, Denbighshire and Flintshire as well as independent experts. The panel meets on a quarterly basis to assess applications. There is no deadline for applications.
Further information about the Gwynt y Môr Community Fund can be found by going to www.gwyntymorfund.cymru or on twitter @gwyntymorcf. Alternatively groups are welcome to contact CVSC on 01492 534091.