£1.4m boosts local food projects across the Marches
A major new project backed by more than £1.4m in National Lottery funding will support communities across the Marches, Monmouthshire, Herefordshire, Powys and Shropshire, in developing a stronger, greener and more resilient local food system. The initiative, named Marches Food Systems for the Future, aims to strengthen food resilience, reduce carbon emissions and create stronger connections between producers and consumers.
The allocated budget of £1,458,193.85 from the Climate Action Fund will support practical, locally led action, including community growing and cooking initiatives, composting and food waste reduction schemes, shared meals, farm visits and activities that help more people access and support locally produced food. The project is led by the Marches Food Partnership, a collaboration between Monmouthshire Food Partnership, Bwyd Powys Food, Herefordshire Food Alliance and Shropshire Good Food Partnership, with Monmouthshire County Council acting as the lead accountable body.
Over the coming years, communities across the Marches will have opportunities to form community clusters to explore local food needs, identify shared priorities and develop practical projects in response.
Read Also: Reclinker Raises £10m for Low-Carbon Cement Innovation
Council leaders have emphasised the importance of grassroots participation. Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, Leader of Monmouthshire County Council, said: “This exciting project will put local people and farmers at the heart of shaping a stronger, fairer and more sustainable local food system.” She added that by working together across the Marches, communities can turn local ideas into practical action, share what works and build lasting resilience for future generations.
Cllr Sara Burch, Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, Housing and Tourism, said local people would be central to the project, supporting the development of community clusters that bring together residents, farmers, food businesses and local organisations to explore local food needs and opportunities.
As the project develops, there will be opportunities for local people, farmers, producers, food businesses and organisations from across the Marches to get involved, share ideas and help shape local action.
