Governance and decision-making
- Local Funds: Managed by the local community through their own Community Company or Trust Fund.
- Area Trust Funds: Managed by an Area Fund Board with representatives from relevant communities and agencies.
- Highland Trust Fund: Managed by a Board comprising representatives from communities, public agencies, and other organisations.
Planning and Governance Separation
There is no conflict of interest between Highland Council’s planning authority role and its Community Benefit policy. Planning applications are handled by the Planning & Development Service, while Community Benefit is managed by the Chief Executive’s Service. Clear separation is maintained between these functions.
Community Autonomy and Eligibility
- Communities may negotiate directly with developers if they choose.
- Communities that negotiate independently are still eligible to apply for support from Area and Highland Trust Funds.
- Communities without access to a Local Fund are also eligible for Area and Highland Trust Fund support.
Strategic Influence and Match Funding
- Communities can influence strategic objectives of the Area and Highland Trust Funds through consultations and board representation.
- Community Benefit funds are considered private funds and can be used as match funding for other grant programmes, such as:
- European Fisheries Fund
- SRDP funding
- Highland LEADER funding