RURAL areas in Monmouthshire could see £2.79 million poured into beneficial projects.

The money comes from the Rural Development Programme (RDP) funded by the European Union and Welsh Government.

The main aims of the RDP include adding value to local identity, boosting businesses, exploring new ways of providing non-statutory services, encouraging renewable energy at community level and the exploitation of technology.

The new programme will be officially launched next month and communities are invited to apply for funds to advance their projects.

When the new programme, if approved, launches in July the Vale of Usk Local Action Group will be making a regular call for communities of interest who are able to provide 20 per cent of the total project costs. Support to develop the projects will come from MCC's RDP delivery team who will offer advice and support to help bring the projects to the point of delivery.

Michael Powell, rural programmes manager for MCC, said: "This is an exciting opportunity for the rural communities of Monmouthshire and Newport.

"This new tranche of RDP funding will provide much needed revenue support to develop innovative projects that could be scaled up in the future to make a big impact in the region.

"The team are keen to hear from anyone who has an idea that they wish to discuss and look forward to working with our communities to make this RDP programme the best ever."

MCC's cabinet will meet today (3rd June) to discuss the plans.