Dingwall Common Good Fund Update and 2026/27 Budget Agreed
The Highland Council’s Dingwall and Seaforth Area Committee today agreed the latest updates on the Dingwall Common Good Fund, including the financial accounts for 2024/25, monitoring for the current financial year, and the proposed budget for 2026/27.
The Fund recorded a strong financial performance in 2024/25, ending the year with a surplus of £67,112. This was largely due to higher rental and investment income and lower property costs than expected. As a result, the Fund’s revenue reserves increased from £282,465 to £349,577. The Fund’s property portfolio also grew in value, with a revaluation of £35,000.
During the year, two community grants were awarded:
- £2,000 to Dingwall in Bloom.
- £250 to support Dingwall Feil Maree 2024
Monitoring for the first three quarters of 2025/26 shows that the Fund is on track for another positive year, with an estimated income variance of +£3,736 due to increased interest and investment returns. Expenditure is also projected to come in below budget.
Looking ahead, the proposed 2026/27 budget maintains support for community grants and ongoing property costs. A surplus of £39,100 is forecast for the year, which would continue to strengthen the Fund’s reserves.
Vice Chair of the Dingwall and Seaforth Area Committee, Margaret Paterson said: “The Dingwall Common Good Fund is in a healthy financial position, and this is good news for our local community. The strong performance last year and positive forecasts for the year ahead mean we can continue to look after our Common Good assets, support local groups, and plan confidently for the future.”