This will be achieved through a range of action programmes interpreted through economic development, training, education, employment, leisure and recreations, environmental, social, cultural and community safety policies. The Cemetery Lodge was a run down and derelict building owned by the local authority, who wanted to sell it to the private sector. The Cemetery Support Group, a local voluntary organisation, asked Environment Concern to save the property for the community. By securing 40,000 from the City Challenge Programme the property was purchased and a further 100,000 from English Partnership's Community Investment Fund financed the renovation of The Lodge. The Cemetery Lodge Resource and Training Centre was officially opened on the 23rd September 1999 by the Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire Sir John and became operational in October 1999, thanks to Biffaward donating 98,000 from the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme to match fund monies received from the European Union.
Community participation is an integral ingredient to the success of the project.
Regeneration concepts, environmental improvements and areas of neglect are identified by community groups and individuals, who are then involved in the planning, development and execution off the projects. Additional support is given with help in writing business plans, filling in applications for funding and in developing group sustainability.