RURAL communities on Anglesey are set to receive a £4 million boost.
The Rural Development Fund will help projects that improve economic and cultural life on the Island.
The scheme, launched at the Anglesey Show by Deputy First Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones, will support community projects until 2011.
Anglesey’s rural development plan co-ordinator, Eifion L Jones said that the fund “will provide a important boost for rural Anglesey over the next two years”.
“The local RDP programme will support hugely diverse projects and enhance economic value on the Island,” he said.
“The RDP will provide an important boost for rural Anglesey and, by working in partnership with the AERP and Mentor Môn, we hope to utilise these funds to improve the sustainability of our communities and economy.”
The plan will fund schemes that regenerate rural towns an villages and promote the island’s tourism and culture.
Thirteen projects are currently funded by the plan, including a new roof for Swtan folk museum – the island’s only thatch cottage – and GeMôn, the Anglesey Giodiversity project.
Also earmarked for funding is a project that adds value to soft wood by heating it, and various outdoor activities.
A panel will meet regularly to discuss future applications for RDP funding.
Anglesey Council’s economic and tourism portfolio, Cllr Bryan Owen said: “Our local economy is hugely dependent on the Island’s countryside, environment and natural beauty.
“The RDP will provide an important boost for rural Anglesey and, by working in partnership with the AERP and Mentor Môn, we hope to utilise these funds to improve the sustainability of our communities and economy.”
Eifion L. Jones added that the fund will help create a bright future for Anglesey.
“Every little helps, and the hope is that plan will have a big effect on the island,” he said.