Set up 25 years ago, the trustees meet on a quarterly basis to allocate grants to local community-projects and not-for-profit organisations, donating more than £3.5 million since its creation in 1997. Manchester airport contributes £100,000 per year to the fund, which is topped up by fines levied on airlines that breach noise restrictions.
Recent beneficiaries include Mobberley Junior Football Club in East Cheshire, Philips Park and Southern Cemetery in Chorlton, Newton Cricket Club in Hyde, Lach Dennis wildflower meadow project in West Cheshire and Webb Lane Allotments in Stockport. Grants were also awarded to local scout groups and public parks.
Manchester airport’s managing director Chris Woodroofe, said: “The Community Trust Fund has made an enormous contribution to our neighbouring communities since it was first conceived 25 years ago, and the range of donations agreed at the latest meeting is testament to that.
“If you are involved in a community initiative or not-for-profit group, based within 10 miles of the airport, you can ask for up to £3,000 towards equipment or costed projects, and we would love to hear from you ahead of the trustees’ next meeting in October.”
The Community Trust Fund is overseen by the airport and managed by a committee of independent trustees, formed of councillors from the six local authority areas that fall within the fund’s catchment area. It provides cash grants to contribute to or meet the full cost of not-for-profit initiatives.
