Voluntary and community groups encouraging sustainable travel in Thurrock can benefit from a newly launched grant scheme.

Forward Motion – a collaborative initiative between Thurrock, Essex and Southend councils – is inviting not-for-profit organisations that deliver projects promoting alternative ways of travel within the borough to apply for grants ranging from £250 to £20,000.

Funds will be allocated towards supporting group or individual activity schemes; volunteer-led opportunities in active travel focused activities; events that encourage sustainable travel; or arts, culture and community projects that engage residents through cycling, walking or public transport.

Groups will need to fill in an application form, which is available on the ForwardMotion website, provide details about their chosen project and demonstrate how it meets the fund criteria. Completed forms must be sent to ForwardMotion no later than Friday 1 March at 5pm.

Aaron Watkins, councillor for environment and highways, said: “We want to encourage residents in Thurrock to rely less on cars and think about using different ways of travel, such as cycling, walking and public transport, to get around the borough.

“As well as the numerous health and wellbeing benefits that these travel options can offer, they are all more environmentally friendly and can be cheaper, too.

“The Department of Transport has secured funding for this initiative and we urge local voluntary organisations and community groups to take advantage of the scheme, so that their projects can receive the boost they need.”

For more information and to apply for the grant scheme visit thurrock.gov.uk/forwardmotion