Major Funding Secured for Climate Action Leeds Project

Major Funding Secured for Climate Action Leeds Project

June 1, 2026 Off By

New grant to support community-led environmental initiatives

The Climate Action Leeds project has been awarded a significant grant from the National Lottery to continue its work promoting environmental sustainability and community engagement across Leeds. The funding will support a range of local initiatives aimed at improving health, financial wellbeing, social connections, and the environment.

Details of the funding and project scope

Climate Action Leeds has secured nearly £500,000, including a £453,000 grant from the National Lottery’s Reaching Communities Fund, to be used over the next three years from July 2026 to June 2029. Additional contributions have come from Leeds Community Foundation, the University of Leeds, and the distribution company Bunzl. Local business North Star Coffee Roasters has also committed to fundraising efforts for the project.

The funding will support the continued operation and development of the Climate Action Leeds Network and the community venue Imagine Leeds, located at 9 Blenheim Terrace, LS2 9HZ. The Network facilitates events, workshops, and training sessions on topics such as growing food, sustainable travel, and money-saving through activities like clothes swaps and repair cafés. Imagine Leeds serves as a climate action hub, hosting events, exhibitions, and providing co-working space for community members.

Community involvement and objectives

Since its inception in 2020, Climate Action Leeds has engaged more than 30,000 people through the efforts of community groups, charities, and volunteers. The project aims to empower local groups to take action on environmental issues while also addressing social and economic challenges.

Martin Flynn, Network Coordinator at Voluntary Action Leeds, highlighted the importance of community-led efforts in addressing both environmental and social issues. Simon Dixon, Project and Venue Manager at Imagine Leeds, emphasised the need for a permanent venue to continue supporting the city’s sustainability goals.

Alignment with Leeds city ambitions

The project supports Leeds City Council’s ambitions to become a resilient, sustainable city and the UK’s first net zero and nature positive city. Councillor James Gibson, executive member for environment, welcomed the funding as a means to further these shared goals.

Rosa Foster, Director of Leeds Climate Commission, noted the project’s role in empowering community sectors and contributing to strategic climate discussions.

Opportunities for local groups

The Climate Action Leeds Network is open to all community groups and non-profit organisations in Leeds. Membership is free and offers benefits such as event promotion, fundraising advice, and networking opportunities. No prior climate expertise is required to join.

Job opportunity

Climate Action Leeds is recruiting a part-time Events Coordinator for Imagine Leeds. The application deadline is 24 June 2026. More information is available at CharityJob.

Background

The project was initially funded by a £2.5 million National Lottery Climate Action Fund grant from 2020 to 2025. The current grant will enable the continuation and expansion of community-led climate action initiatives in Leeds.

Source: Doing Good Leeds, Major funding awarded to Climate Action Leeds community project

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