Key Highlights
- Nearly £6 million in funding has been awarded to 23 island communities by the Scottish Government.
- The funding is aimed at supporting sustainable infrastructure projects on Scotland’s islands.
- Projects range from community hall renovations to business and tourism development initiatives.
- The announcement was made ahead of the autumn meeting of the Convention of the Highlands and Islands in Brodick, Arran.
Funding for Island Communities
Nearly £6 million has been allocated by the Scottish Government to support 23 community-led projects across Scotland’s islands. This funding, part of the Islands Programme and Carbon Neutral Islands Fund, aims to enhance infrastructure and promote sustainable development in these remote areas.
Projects Overview
The funding spans a diverse range of projects, benefiting 22 islands including Argyll and Bute, Highland, Na h-Eileanan Siar, North Ayrshire, Orkney, and Shetland. Four islands—Luing, Lismore, Scalpay, and Ulva—are receiving support for the first time.
Islands Programme Recipients
The Scottish Government’s Islands Programme has awarded 18 projects a total of £5,674,032. Specific examples include:
- Leverburgh Village Hall Regeneration Project (Harris): £474,071
- South Skye Community Campus (Skye): £327,393
- Coroghon Barn Technical Design (Canna): £250,800
- Eigg’s Net Zero Homes phase 2 (Eigg): £401,843
Carbon Neutral Islands Fund Projects
The Carbon Neutral Islands Fund has provided funding to five projects totaling £1,756,189. Key recipients include:
- Vatersay Community Hall and Cafe – Decarbonising Community Spaces (Vatersay): £249,007
- Sellafirth Community Hall (Shetland outer isles): £298,674
- Hoy Community Transport Electrification Project (Orkney outer isles): £131,484
- Millport Solar PV and Battery Project, Phase 2 (Great Cumbrae): £293,101
Government Support and Community Involvement
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes emphasized the Scottish Government’s commitment to supporting island communities. “Our island communities are bursting with ambition, innovation, and potential,” she stated.
“The funding will help these projects create a sustainable future for our islands by addressing local priorities such as depopulation, the cost of living, and limited community infrastructure.” Forbes highlighted that the funds will be used to transform spaces like Brodick Town Hall into modern island hubs and support youth centers on Arran.
Convention of the Highlands and Islands
The announcement was made ahead of the autumn meeting of the Convention of the Highlands and Islands, which is taking place in Brodick Town Hall. The event will be chaired by Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes with Public Finance Minister Ivan McKee also attending.
More information can be found here.
Community Impact and Future Outlook
The funding is expected to have a significant impact on island communities, providing essential infrastructure and promoting sustainable development. Local authorities and community groups are optimistic about the potential of these projects to enhance their islands’ economies and quality of life.
“The council is delighted to be hosting the autumn Convention of the Highlands and Islands in Brodick,” said North Ayrshire Council’s cabinet member for communities, housing, and islands, councillor Alan Hill. “This funding will transform generations of islanders’ lives by providing a modern facility that can serve as the heart of the community for years to come.”
