Welsh Government Coastal Capacity Building Scheme extended
The Welsh Government has announced a two-year extension of its Coastal Capacity Building Scheme, which will continue to support community-led environmental projects through funding of £260,000 per year from 2025/26 to 2026/27.
Huw Irranca-Davies, deputy First Minister with responsibility for climate change and rural affairs, said: "This funding extension reflects our commitment to improving resilience in our coastal communities.
"These locally-led projects are exactly the kind of collaborative approach we need – bringing together communities, local authorities and businesses to protect our precious marine environment while creating sustainable opportunities.
"The scheme strengthens the connection between local coastal communities and nature, helping people understand the actions they can take to make a difference."
Delivered through the Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA), the scheme has already supported 11 projects since its launch in October 2023.
One of the funded projects is the Neath Port Talbot Local Nature Partnership, which ran workshops to connect people with coastal habitats and raise awareness of environmental protection.
Rebecca Sharp, countryside and wildlife team leader at Neath Port Talbot Council, said: "The aim of the Coastal Connections Project was to get people engaged with the coastline in Neath Port Talbot and raise awareness of the amazing habitats and species we have along our shores.
"Neath Port Talbot's coastline is generally associated with its rich industrial heritage rather than its habitats and wild spaces.
"The project therefore aimed to highlight the area's often-overlooked natural beauty and encourage a broader appreciation of its ecological importance."
Activities included beach cleans, seashore safaris, and a marine mammal medic course delivered in partnership with the British Divers Marine Life Rescue Organisation.
Funding applications remain open to new and existing partners interested in supporting coastal communities.
Organisations are encouraged to email lnpcymru@wcva.cymru to apply.
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