Grants for growers

Tuesday 26 November 2024

Alderney growers could be given a financial grant to help encourage local produce.

Interested parties need to have a fair bit of land available for growing, but could be inline for the support if they qualify.

The Alderney General Services Committee is introducing the new grant and subsidy scheme, with an eye to encouraging fruit and vegetable growing on the island.

It’s part of the States of Alderney’s Strategy for Nature and Agriculture, which was published earlier this year, with a budget of £20,000 set aside to support the agricultural community.

They've said the scheme will be open to existing growers who are already selling produce, as well as Individuals or groups who are starting new growing projects on unused land.

There’s a two pronged approach being taken by the States. The first one being the grant, which is available to support anyone who wants to bring suitable land back into use, whilst the second is a subsidy scheme which looks to promote locally grown produce on the Island.

There are some barriers to entry though.

Initially applications for the grant and the subsidy will be restricted to plots over 2,000 sq.m, or half an acre. Plus a proposal on whatever is going to be grown needs to be submitted and approved.

Application details are due to be announced in the New Year, and the entire scheme will be under review the following year, to make sure it’s hitting its objectives and representing good value for money.