Rural Development Initiatives, a not-for-profit project management company with bases in Aberdeenshire, Angus, Northumberland and Yorkshire, have recently been awarded a number of new key rural sector contracts and projects.
In Scotland, RDI have been appointed by Forestry Commission Scotland to supply support services to three woodfuel forums in east Scotland, central Scotland and Ayrshire. The forums, established by Forestry Commission Scotland, allow people and businesses working in the woodfuel sector to address, discuss and develop all aspects of Scotland’s woodfuel supply chain with a view to encourage the uptake of woodfuel as a form of renewable energy. RDI will be able to bring its project development and management and significant technical expertise to the forums and help the sector consolidate and expand.
In North East England, RDI have been awarded a contract to deliver a new phase of its Landskills training project by Lantra, the Sector Skills Council for the Land-Based and Environmental industries. With funding from the RDPE (Rural Development Programme for England) and Defra, the project will provide support for forest industry skills training for both forest workers and woodland owners. A wide range of training courses are on offer and applicants should approach RDI for support with their own particular training requirements.
Also in North East England, the Northumberland Uplands LAG (Leader Action Group) have approved, subject to contract, a suite of support projects for fuel supply businesses in the area. Delivered by Northwoods, the RDI-managed woodland initiative in the region, projects will include promotional work along the 'use wood fuel' lines, production of a buyer’s guide, hosting the first Northumberland Firewood Fair and working with local businesses to support them through HETAS accreditation for firewood and chip production.
In Yorkshire, the Yorkshire Dales Sustainable Development Fund have recently announced their support for a firewood sector project which will assist six local producers through HETAS accreditation, work with local communities to help them recognise the benefits of using local firewood and offer training to woodland owners and producers. The project will be delivered by Yorwoods, the RDI-managed regional woodland initiative.
More information on this press release can be obtained from Martin Glynn on 01765 650149 or martin.glynn@ruraldevelopment.org.uk.
