A WINDFARM between Longtown and Gretna has now paid out more than £1 million in grants to the surrounding community.
The nine turbines at Beck Burn began generating electricity in 2017, producing enough power for 18,000 homes.
As part of the scheme, operator EDF Renewables UK agreed to pay £155,250 a year to community projects within a 10km radius of the site.
And a £10,300 grant to Springfield and Gretna Green Community Asset Trust, to replace windows at Stormont Hall in Gretna Green, has taken the total paid out to more than £1m.
Simon Ling, asset manager for the scheme, said: “It’s wonderful to see such a significant milestone be reached.
“We are thrilled to see such worthy projects receive funding to enhance the lives of those living in and around Longtown and Gretna and look forward to hearing more over the coming months.”
Raydale Community Partnership is the single largest beneficiary, having received grants totalling £85,000 since 2018.
The not-for-profit organisation was formed following the collapse of Gretna FC to buy back the club’s ground, Raydale Park, for use by the community.
The grants have gone towards a 3G multi-discipline sports pitch for year-round use, the creation of a fitness and leisure space and new changing rooms.
Stuart Rome, facilities manager at Raydale Community Partnership, said: “Gretna has lacked a safe space for children and teenagers to participate in sports. We now have more than 250 users of our facilities.
“We’re grateful for EDF Renewables UK’s support for the mental and physical wellbeing of our community. We couldn’t have done what we’ve done without them.”
Across the border, Longtown Memorial Hall and Community Centre has received £28,000 with a further £20,000 just awarded.
The Beck Burn Windfarm Community Fund grants support charitable, community activities that are environmental, educational, sporting or community related. Awards are normally between £1000 and £20,000 and can be for multiple years.
