Community groups, schools, councils, farmers and land managers are being invited to apply for new funding to help nature recover across Somerset.
Somerset Council has launched the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) Community Seed Fund, with grants of up to £10,000 per project available for initiatives that support the priorities set out in Somerset’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy.
The funding comes from Government and aims to turn local ideas into action for nature, while creating clear benefits for Somerset’s communities.
Applications are open to Somerset-based organisations including:
- Parish, town and city councils.
- Community groups and charities.
- Community interest companies.
- Schools.
- Local partnerships with a delivery partner
- Farmers, landowners and estates.
Projects must be based in Somerset and contribute to nature recovery. This could include creating or restoring habitats, helping priority species, improving connections between areas for nature, or enabling work that leads to delivery, such as surveys or feasibility work.
Projects must also demonstrate a clear community benefit.
The fund supports Somerset’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy, a county-wide framework which identifies important existing habitats, opportunities to restore and connect spaces for nature, and priorities for nature recovery.
Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Communities, Environment and Climate Change, said:
“Somerset has fantastic communities with local knowledge, enthusiasm and ideas about how we can help nature recover.
“This new fund is an opportunity to turn those ideas into practical action, whether that means restoring habitats, supporting vulnerable species or helping create better-connected spaces for wildlife.
“We want to hear from communities and organisations across Somerset with projects that can make a real difference for nature and local people.”
Applications can be made through Somerset Council’s Citizen Space consultation platform and will remain open until 4 December 2026. Applicants are strongly encouraged to read the guidance before applying.
Further guidance and information about the fund is available on the council’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy webpage. Pre-application advice is also available from Somerset Council’s LNRS Team at LNRS@somerset.gov.uk
