The fund supports community-led projects that help nature recover, improve biodiversity, increase carbon sequestration and make greenspaces more accessible for local people. In this second round, applicants can also bring forward projects that help improve air quality through tree planting.

South Norfolk Council Leader, Cllr Daniel Elmer, said:

We know how important local greenspaces are for wildlife, climate resilience and people’s health and wellbeing. The Nature Conservation Fund gives communities the opportunity to lead practical, positive projects that make a real difference in their area. We are looking forward to supporting another round of ambitious local projects that help nature thrive across South Norfolk.”

Town and parish councils, community groups, charities and schools in South Norfolk can apply for grants of up to £10,000 to deliver projects that create lasting benefits for wildlife, climate resilience and community wellbeing.

Applications open on Monday 20 July and close on Friday 18 September. Successful projects are expected to be awarded funding in October, ready for the autumn and winter planting season. Projects must be completed by 3 March 2027.

Projects may include mini forests, pond creation or restoration, circular walks, improvements to public access, habitat creation, woodland management, community orchards, wildflower areas, or planting schemes that support biodiversity and air quality. Applications that fall within Local Nature Recovery Strategy priority zones or green infrastructure corridors will be considered particularly strong, alongside projects that demonstrate community support, long-term maintenance and wider environmental benefits.

An applicant workshop will be held on Tuesday 11 August, from 10am – 12:30pm at the Horizon Centre, to help interested groups understand the fund, the application process and the types of projects that may be supported.

The second round builds on the success of the first phase of the Nature Conservation Fund, which awarded funding totalling £70,000 to 11 local groups to deliver biodiversity and nature recovery projects. These included planting mini forests, creating new ponds and establishing circular walking routes to help people enjoy and connect with nature.

Application documents and guidance is available here.