Clutching at VAT straws

[pawncob]

I act for a Flood Defence Trust (and registered charity) which is about to spend a large sum on re-aligning the entrance to a harbour which is threatening to flood a village. The project involves moving several hundred thousand cubic metres of shingle and local authority and Government departments and other Quangos are on board.
We are trying to save or recover the VAT element of the contract, but I can't find any way this can be done as no building is being constructed and there is no supply being made.
Anyone know of a way to reclaim or achieve a lower rate of VAT, either directly or through legislation applicable only to L.A.s/Quangos or other N.G.O.s ?

[les35]

If the Trust fell within s33 or s41, non business input tax might be recoverable. It does depend on the status of the Trust, and also the source of funding. My fear would be that such bodies are generally not charities.
If the L.A. were to take the lead, is there any way they might recover the VAT charged?

[pawncob]

Both sections would work, but we're not importing anything from a Member state! (and I can't find any Treasury Directives)