This programme is now concluded.
The five year Cotswolds Leader Programme ran from 2015 to 2020. It successfully supported 56 rural businesses with grants totalling over £1.7 million. Funding supported the construction of new offices, farm shops and an education centre, and equipment ranging from a robotic milking system to a log-drying kiln.
These investments have enabled the recipient businesses to grow, and have facilitated the creation of 80 jobs across our region. In addition, many environmental benefits have been gained, including from investments in high-tech equipment for precision farming that helps to reduce farms’ carbon footprints.
We produced a short report with details on where the grants went and how they helped businesses, communities, and the environment. The report includes a statistical breakdown by county and local authority. Finally, it reflects on the journey, the lessons learnt, and a look to the future.
Download the Cotswolds LEADER Final Report
LEADER was a national programme and part of the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE), and was funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD). Grant decisions were made by an appointed Local Action Group (LAG) with members recruited through open competition and appointed by the Cotswolds Conservation Board.