New Forest Leader

In January 2008, as part of a competitive bidding process, a partnership of the New Forest Local Action Group, New Forest District Council and the New Forest National Park Authority successfully submitted a bid for £2.1 million of funding from the EU's RDPE (Leader) programme 2008 – 2013.

In the New Forest RDPE (Leader) is being used to support certain types of capital investment in farming, forestry and horticultural businesses as well as small rural businesses which are land based or use/add value to local produce. Grants for investment in alternative energy technologies can also be given to farmers and foresters.

In addition New Forest RDPE (Leader) can provide grants to build or improve community facilities in the New Forest. These grants can be given to businesses, social enterprises, charities and other formally constituted groups.

This website contains all the information you will need to undertake a basic check to see whether you, and your project idea, are eligible for support. It also has the forms necessary to submit an initial Expression of Interest, however please check your eligibility before you do so.