Changes ahead for environmental group

The Rye based group believes that becoming a charity will enable it to fund more local projects.

The group’s secretary Sandy Roger said: “Right from REG’s original founding, it was intended that it would become a charity – in fact this intent is written into the current constitution.

“The Committee have decided now is the time to press forward with this change.

“There is growing momentum with environmental projects across Rother - from Bexhill beach cleans to Battle cycle routes to Transition Town Rye. We believe REG, with charitable status, will be in a better position to raise money which can be used as seed funding for such projects.

“Rother Environmental Group as a charity, can be a powerful enabler of environmental change across the District.

The Committee are now working on the practical details of this, including an updated constitution, and we will be putting the proposition to the membership at the November 26 AGM.

The group is involved with a number of projects in the Rother area, including, neighbourhood planning, working to create a network of safe cycle routes and exploring renewable energy for rural communities and taking a detailed look at wind farms.

It is also concerned with Lydd Airport and the neighbouring RSPB Reserve and is working on a submission for a consultation on energy aspects the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

On Saturday the group is playing a leading role in Energy Day at Tilling Green Community Centre in Rye. It is the biggest environmental event locally for some years and will be offering help and advice to people on how to reduce their energy bills.

There will be guest speakers from Lewes, Wadebridge, Cornwall, and over a dozen stalls from suppliers and various community groups.

The group meets regularly and is looking for new members and volunteers. For more information visit [email protected].