Whitemill Environment Fund

Whitemill Environment Fund is a small grants fund available to groups in Coldham, Friday Bridge, Elm, Ring's End and Christchurch.

Grants are available to established community organisations to fund projects that improve the environment and enhance residents' knowledge of an environmental issue.

Funding bids are available for up to £15,000.

The fund can be used to fund the entire cost of a project, though the awarding committee may choose to offer part funding.

Funding is awarded twice a year. The closing date for applications is midnight on 31 May 2026.

Projects must primarily benefit the residents of Elm Parish and Christchurch.

Background to the fund

The fund was established in 2013 and is managed by a committee including:

Fenland District Council
Elm Parish Council
Local representatives living within the turbine catchment

Money will be added to it for 25 years (in total) by the Co-Op, which owns and runs Whitemill wind farm, in Coldham.

Over the 25-year lifetime of the project around £175k will be added to the fund (fluctuating according to RPI).

What you can bid for

The committee will consider bids that enhance or protect the environment and educate people about an environmental issue.

Examples include:

Theme	Examples
Energy efficiency	Insulation Efficient lighting Draught proofing Community engagement projects
Renewable energy	Solar panels Wind power Heat pumps Biomass (e.g wood) heating
Water efficiency	Rain water recycling Grey water reuse Paving or communal planting to prevent flooding Compost toilets
Wildlife	Creating habitats Protecting species Restoring communal green spaces for wildlife
Waste	Projects aiming to reduce or recycle waste
Transport	Car sharing Bio-diesel vehicles Community cycling
Sustainable materials	Projects aiming to increase the use of sustainable materials