THE Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor John Boyle, this week launched the latest round of grant funding to help local organisations host events and training sessions aimed at encouraging people to consider greener travel options.The Active Travel Grants Scheme is supported by funding from Derry City and Strabane District Council and the Public Health Agency (PHA) and offers grants of up to £1,000 to organisations such as walking and cycling clubs, schools, universities, community groups and employers.
Speaking at the launch, Cllr Boyle urged local groups to apply now to develop their active travel strategy. “I’m delighted to launch this important scheme,” he declared. “Helping people travel in a more active way is a real priority for Council given the health and environmental benefits it brings.
“We all have to make an effort to be as active as possible in our travel choices and we are encouraging local organisations to take the lead in this by hosting events and training sessions for people through this scheme.
“The Active Travel Grant scheme is in keeping with the aims and objectives of the Transport and Infrastructure group in Council’s Strategic Growth Plan, to promote a more integrated, sustainable and accessible transport system, which maximises growth, social inclusion and quality of life.”
Colette Brolly, lead for physical activity at the NI Public Health Agency, said: “Being more physically active can make a real difference to your health and wellbeing.
“Through these grants, we aim to increase opportunities for more people to get active in a sustainable way. Any activity is good for you, with a minimum recommended level of physical activity at 150 minutes per week, or 30 minutes each day, for adults, we hope these grants will help more of us to meet and exceed this target.”
This is the second year the Scheme has been delivered, and this is the first of two rounds of funding available until 31 March 2019. The deadline for this round is 12 noon on 29 June 2018.
The second call for applications will be open from 1 July until September 15th for events and training starting in the Autumn.
Eligible groups must be non-profit making and based within the Derry City and Strabane District Council area. A minimum of four events must be organised across the financial year ending March 2018.
Council reserves the right to withhold funding from any event that does not adequately and appropriately promote the Council’s messages of walking and cycling.
Application forms are available to download now on Council’s website at www.derrystrabane.com/activetravel
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