BUSINESSES, schools and residents are being urged to find out more about eco-efforts in their area with the launch of a new “green guide”.
As part of the Bensham and Saltwell Alive scheme Groundwork North East has been given almost £5,000 to map Gateshead’s greatest green spaces and bring together information on local environmental groups.
Senior project officer Sarah Knox said the project, funded by the borough council’s Local Community Fund, had been a great opportunity to start building links with and recognise some of the fantastic work that is being done by local schools, community groups and individuals.
“We have linked in with the Bensham and Saltwell Alive group who aim to celebrate the positive attributes of the area by working with local people to develop skills and interests in order to support new projects and events and help to make Bensham and Saltwell a better place to live and work,” she said.
“Groundwork is so pleased to be a part of this exciting on-going project which local people are encouraged to be involved in.
“Bensham and Saltwell Alive are even on Facebook and I would encourage local people to take a look.”
It is hoped the guide will also be used to find out more about current environmental projects in the area, find information on local green spaces to visit or encourage people to come up with ideas for environmental projects of their own.
Already the project has seen a number of new eco-ideas put forward including a community garden project at Sandown Allotments, school grounds projects and further environmental networking opportunities for Bensham and Saltwell.
Groundwork North East now hopes to support these groups to plan out their project ideas and secure the necessary funding to ensure they are a success.
The guide will be available in libraries or via the website www.ourgateshead.org in the coming weeks. Or to receive a copy contact Sarah Knox by calling 0191 567 2550 or emailing sarah.knox@groundwork.org.uk
A networking event is also planned for 2012 where people can come together, share ideas and meet members of other community groups.
For more information visit www.groundwork-northeast.org.uk