Back to nature drive launched
Monday, 08 Oct 2007 12:51
Natural England wants to encourage more people to enjoy nature
Science In Focus
Click here to see how British small businesses are creating innovative, low carbon business ideas, on inthenews.co.uk. Full Story
Celebrity gardener Alan Titchmarsh has joined a campaign to encourage more people to enjoy the outdoors and get in touch with nature.
Natural England, which has been given £25 million from the Lottery fund for the Access to Nature initiative, hopes to help people who currently have little or no access to nature.
It claims the project will see tens of thousands of people from a variety of backgrounds coming together in the countryside.
The scheme will fund projects in urban, rural and coastal communities to broaden opportunities for people to get close to nature.
Projects can apply for a share of the money from the start of next year and grants will be awarded between £50,000 and £500,000.
"Learning about and caring for our environment has never been more important and I think this is an excellent use of Lottery money, bringing our communities together to rejuvenate existing, as well as creating new natural places," said Mr Titchmarsh.
Natural England chair Sir Martin Doughty added: "Everyone, wherever they live, whatever their background, should be able to enjoy our natural environment.
"The Access to Nature grant scheme will increase the opportunities for everyone to enjoy the outdoors and learn more about our rich natural heritage."