(a) Community based, locally focussed and involving participation. This could include educational or artistic schemes, outdoor pursuits as well as the other purposes mentioned below.

(b) Innovative and experimental schemes. This can include some projects started in other regions of Britain or Europe which can be introduced and adapted to the special requirements of our region. In other words if great things are happening on Tyneside or in the Dordogne we should be looking to learn from them.

(c) Projects aiming at conservation, natural regeneration and sustainability. This can include low impact and sustainable dwellings, transport and energy initiatives, reafforestation and other set aside of land for regeneration, including rural resettlement.

2. The RDA in consultation with the Chamber shall devise means by which projects not meeting these requirements including large businesses, shall be encouraged or even required, if appropriate on planning grounds, or because they fall short of some sustainability criteria, to make payments into the Fund. This may be vital if it is to be properly funded. The RDA may also have some funds to launch the work, in particular it should appoint a fundraiser, who would also encourage private subscription to the schemes.

3. The administration of the SDF shall be given to a special committee including representatives of the RDA, the Chamber and other community representatives. Inviting and receiving applications they shall designate where the funds shall go.

4. While funding for some of these objectives may exist elsewhere, it is thought important the the Region have its own criteria and its own input, and that communities and projects with no funding of their own can thus have another independent body to approach.

This paper is a discussion document produced by the SW Council of Faiths, for the attention of the members of the Chamber and RDA and others.