Rural Footpath Grant
What is the 'Rural Footpath
Grant'?
The objective of the Rural Footpath
Grant is to increase connectivity between villages and key
locations throughout the rural vale by creating new
public rights of way (including bridleways) and improving
existing public rights of way; addressing issues associated with
community fragility and access to the countryside.
This grant
scheme can provide new or improved footpath links:
- Between communities
- Between communities and the coast / coastal
path
- Between communities and service centres
- To encourage community use of footpaths in lieu of other
less sustainable transport methods
Who can apply?
The Rural Footpath Grant is
available to public, voluntary and community organisations as well
as individuals. The only requirement is that the proposed
works are located within the rural Vale, which includes
the following wards; Cowbridge; Dinas Powys; Peterston-super-Ely;
Llandow/Ewenny; Llantwit Major; Rhoose; St Athan; St Brides
Major; Wenvoe; Sully.
The wards of Barry,
Penarth and Llandough are excluded from the
‘Rural’ area.
How much can I apply for?
The maximum grant per project is
£40,000, or up to 70% of the total eligible project cost, whichever
is the lesser. Applicants will need to provide 30% match
funding of the total project cost. Applicants who are interested in
this grant but do not have match funding are advised to contact the
Rural Regeneration Officer (details below) to discuss the possible
use of other grant funding opportunities available, as well as in
kind contributions that could be used as match funding.
What are the next steps?
Applicants will have to complete a rural
footpaths grant application form following consultation with the
Rural Regeneration Officer to evaluate the appliciants eligibity
and project proposals. To discuss your propossal please
contact Mark Cottray on 01446
704645 or email: mcottray@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
Example of work
The
footpath just north of Corntown Road was successfully granted
funding to improve the condition of the path. There was a
long term desire from the local community for such improvements due
to the footpath often being inaccessible during poor
weather conditions. The improvements included the laying of a
stone dust surface with a width of 2m where possible, a new kissing
gate and improved signage of the right of
way.
