Transport Scotland has announced that the third round of the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Low Carbon Travel and Transport Challenge Fund is now open and available for applications.

Public, community and third sector organisations can now apply for £13.25 million of available ERDF and Scottish Government support to help deliver innovative active travel and low carbon transport hubs, delivered through Energy Saving Trust. £8.4 million has been provided through ERDF and this investment will continue to help people and communities throughout Scotland to benefit from further sustainable and greener travel options and help further strengthen Scotland's contribution to global efforts to prevent damaging climate change.

While match funding is required, applications can cover 70% or 80% of the total project costs depending on location. Eligibility criteria have also been tailored to broaden the range of applicants and to encourage applications that will benefit rural communities.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson said: "Through the previous two rounds of the Low Carbon Travel and Transport Challenge Fund just over £8.5 million has been awarded. This year, a further £13.25m is available, thanks to European Regional Development and Scottish Government funding, and this increased investment signals the growing scale of our commitment to the sustainable travel agenda.

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"The Challenge Fund is already bringing exciting projects to life across Scotland. We've seen the recently launched Irvine travel hub, with work soon commencing in Stromness to improve air quality, alongside the construction of an innovative electric vehicle charging hub in Falkirk which uses renewable energy. These projects will improve local air quality, and offer healthier travel choices while supporting our Climate Change Plan.

"For some applications, only a 20% funding contribution would be required to be eligible for Challenge Fund support. This is therefore a fantastic opportunity for public, community and third sector organisations to bring forward their plans for sustainable transports solutions that encourage walking and cycling, promote the uptake of electric vehicles and provide further sustainable transport options across Scotland."

Ellie Grebenik, Senior Programme Manager at Energy Saving Trust said: "The third round of the Low Carbon Travel and Transport fund will support a range of projects across Scotland, and is intended to provide local communities with greater and easier access to active travel and low carbon transport hubs and paths. These projects work to support the Scottish Government's objectives of reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality and encouraging improved health outcomes through boosting the use of active travel.

"The fund is now open with a deadline for applications of 25 October. In order to assist communities interested in applying for support, Energy Saving Trust is hosting a series of events to support organisations through the application process;  webinars and surgeries that will take place throughout August and September. Additionally, I would encourage people to contact the team at Energy Saving Trust, who are available by phone and email."

(MH/CM)