Community groups in the Scottish Borders region are being encouraged to apply for a share of SSE's Sustainable Development Fund.

The £125,000 fund will launch on 28 April and is being made available to non-profit making organisations, community groups and charities within the Scottish Borders region.

The fund has been provided as part of the community benefit arrangements from Langhope Rig wind farm, near Roberton, and is expected to open every three years. Its key priority in the Borders region is to enhancement the built and natural environment through activities, as well as to build upon local heritage and support the visitor economy.

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Successful projects will have the potential to make a significant and sustainable difference to people within the region, while further consideration will be given to those projects that demonstrate value for money and show evidence of wide community support.

Weighting will also be given to projects closest to SSE's existing developments in the area.

The deadline for applications is 27 June, and the funding decisions will be published in September.

The decisions will be made by an independent panel, chaired by the former First Minister of Scotland Lord Jack McConnell. He said: "The Sustainable Development Fund represents a golden opportunity for communities to kick-start a transformational project in their local area. I'd urge anyone who has a 'big idea' for their community to apply now."

Alan Young, Managing Director, Corporate Affairs at SSE, added: "The Sustainable Development Fund will work in tandem with our local funds and allows the benefits to be directed to broader community initiatives, in scale, impact and in the long-term value they will deliver."

http://sse.com/community/sustainablefund/

(JP/MH)