Deadline: 11-Feb-2026

The FCC Community Action Fund provides £10,000–£100,000 for community improvement projects located within 10 miles of eligible FCC Environment landfill sites in England. It supports projects that enhance local facilities, benefit residents, and deliver long-term environmental or social impact. Eligible groups include charities, councils, churches, and CASC sports clubs.

The FCC Community Action Fund is a major grant opportunity under the Landfill Communities Fund (LCF). It supports local projects that improve community facilities, strengthen shared spaces, and generate lasting benefits for people living near designated landfill sites.

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What the Fund Supports

The programme invests in projects located within 10 miles of an eligible FCC Environment landfill site. Funding focuses on public spaces and community assets that deliver measurable social, environmental, or built-environment improvements.

Funding Amounts

• Grant size: £10,000–£100,000

• Maximum project cost: £250,000 (including VAT)

• Phased projects allowed: Each phase must be independently deliverable and fully stand-alone.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Registered charities

• Churches and parochial church councils

• Parish and town councils

• Management committees acting on behalf of eligible organisations

• Local authorities

• CASC-registered sports clubs

Projects must be:

• Located within an eligible radius

• Fully public-benefit focused

• Not yet started at the time of application

What the Fund Does Not Support

The fund excludes:

• Projects already underway

• Staff salaries or operational costs

• Land purchases

• Vehicles and machinery

• Educational or healthcare facilities

• Car parks, highways, and other restricted categories

Why It Matters

The fund targets communities directly affected by landfill operations. By investing in nearby neighbourhoods, it:

• Improves shared facilities

• Enhances wellbeing and inclusivity

• Strengthens local identity

• Supports cleaner, more connected environments

Key Assessment Criteria

Applications must demonstrate:

• Clear community need

• Consultation with local residents

• Measurable public benefit

• Long-term sustainability (maintenance plans required)

• Value for money and realistic budgets

• Capacity to deliver the project on time

• Strong planning and evidence of demand

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

1. Check eligibility
   Confirm your organisation status and verify that the project site is within 10 miles of an eligible landfill.

2. Define the project
   Create a clear, independent, and deliverable activity or phase of work.

3. Engage the community
   Gather evidence of local support, consultation outcomes, and public benefit.

4. Prepare documentation
   Include budgets, designs, maintenance plans, timelines, and organisational governance details.

5. Submit an online application
   Provide full project details, compliance statements, and evidence that the work has not yet begun.

6. Assessment process
   Applications are reviewed for need, sustainability, and value for money.

7. Grant decision
   Successful applicants sign an agreement outlining delivery expectations and monitoring requirements.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting proposals for work already started

• Overestimating budgets or excluding VAT

• Failing to show community consultation

• Proposing a project with unclear long-term maintenance

• Applying for ineligible categories (healthcare, education, vehicles, highways)

• Weak justification of public benefit

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How close must a project be to qualify for funding?

Projects must be within 10 miles of an eligible FCC Environment landfill site.

2. Can a project exceed £250,000 if the grant request is below £100,000?

No. The total project cost cannot exceed £250,000, regardless of grant size.

3. Are volunteer costs or staff salaries eligible?

No. The fund does not cover staff salaries, operational costs, or similar expenditures.

4. Can phased projects apply?

Yes, if each phase is fully deliverable on its own and clearly defined as a stand-alone activity.

5. What evidence of community support is required?

Consultation records, surveys, letters of support, or proof of local demand strengthen the application.

6. Can a project on private land be supported?

Yes, if the public can access the site and the community benefit is clear.

7. Does the fund support environmental conservation work?

Yes, if the project enhances the natural, social, or built environment and meets all core criteria.

Conclusion

The FCC Community Action Fund is a valuable resource for communities seeking to improve local spaces, strengthen facilities, and create long-term benefits for residents near landfill sites. With careful planning, strong community engagement, and a clear focus on sustainability and public benefit, applicants can secure meaningful support to bring transformative projects to life.

For more information, visit FCC Communities Foundation.