A close to £10m grant fund has been launched to mitigate the environmental impacts of Sizewell C.
The power station’s new Natural Environment Improvement Fund (NEIF) will support landscape and biodiversity improvements in the local area both during and after the plant’s construction.
It will be overseen by an awards panel, featuring representatives from Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape (SECHNL), Natural England, local government bodies and Sizewell C.
Natalie Singleton, SECHNL’s Project Officer for the fund, said: “East Suffolk is home to landscapes recognised for their natural beauty, from rare coastal habitats such as vegetated shingle to heathland and ancient woodland.
“The Natural Environment Improvement Fund offers an exciting funding opportunity for the Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape and beyond. I look forward to working with applicants to support initiatives which protect and enhance these special habitats and places, their cultural heritage and the wildlife they support.”
The fund comes as part of Sizewell C’s Deed of Obligation with Suffolk County Council and East Suffolk Council, outlining mitigation measures needed to support the natural environment.
As much as £6.2m will be awarded during the construction period, with a further £3.5m set to be awarded in the three years following the plant’s completion.
Applications will be open to charities, landowners, community groups, individuals and businesses in the vicinity of Sizewell C whose work shows a clear benefit to the environment and wider community.
The eligible area spans as far north as Mutford, near Beccles, to Manningtree in Essex. Applications for projects outside of the designated area may also be considered should they meet necessary criteria.
Richard Rout, NEIF panel member and Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Devolution, Local Government Reform and NSIPs, added: “The people of Suffolk are understandably concerned by the impact that energy projects like Sizewell C will have on their lives.
“The Natural Environment Improvement Fund will seek to help address the impacts caused by Sizewell C, especially within the national landscape.
“As a member of the Panel set up to distribute this major new fund, I look forward to awarding grants to local community groups and others to help ensure Suffolk remains a truly great place for people and nature.”
Julia Pyke, Joint Managing Director of Sizewell C, added: “This fund reflects our commitment to protecting and enhancing the natural environment throughout the construction and operation of our power station.
“By supporting sustainable projects that improve habitat connectivity, conserve landscape character, and boost ecological resilience, we aim to leave a lasting positive legacy for local communities and wildlife.
“We look forward to working with our partners and applicants to deliver significant and meaningful environmental benefits across the Suffolk coast.”
More information on the NEIF and how to make an application can be found here.