COMMUNITY groups and environmental organisations are being urged to apply for grants to improve derelict and neglected land in the area.
The North West is home to a quarter of the UK's total derelict land and it is hoped the £125,000 being made available by United Utilities Landcare can help tackle the problem.
David Crawshaw, United Utilities environment manager, said: "The Landcare project supports community initiatives that are helping to breathe new life into areas affected by dereliction.
"The benefits of this scheme are not only to the physical environment, but also to the people living in our communities and we are delighted to be able to support them as they bring about change."
According to a MORI poll, 71 per cent of people believe derelict land reduces their quality of life.
Previous projects supported by United Utilities include restoration of quarry sites in Chorley and creation of wildlife areas in Oldham.
Anyone seeking funding for local projects should contact Andrew Darron at Groundwork North West for an application form. Telephone 0161 237 3200.
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