The co-chairs of Sutherland Pride in Place programme are delighted to announce that the neighbourhood board has now been appointed, marking an important milestone in the development of the programme.
There was a strong level of interest in joining the Board, and the co-chairs had the difficult task of selecting members from a high-quality field of applicants.
Co-Chair, Frances Gunn said: “We know that Sutherland is a special place, shaped by its people, communities and landscapes. I’m confident that all board members will help ensure that local knowledge, lived experience and community aspirations remain at the heart of our decisions and actions.”
The newly appointed board brings together individuals with a wealth of knowledge and experience drawn from communities across Sutherland. Members have knowledge of many different backgrounds, ensuring a broad range of perspectives will help guide the programme and shape future investment.
Representatives from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government are due to visit Sutherland in the coming weeks to meet with the Co-Chairs and Neighbourhood Board. The visit will provide an opportunity to discuss the governance and delivery of the programme, while also allowing board members to promote the area, highlighting both the challenges faced by rural communities and the significant opportunities that exist for the future.
Co-Chair, Ian Ross said: “We’re delighted to have the board appointed and ready to progress with the next stages of the programme. This is a community led programme and we are looking forward to building on the many strengths that already exist here.”
Alongside the appointment of the Neighbourhood Board, recruitment is currently underway for a dedicated Pride in Place Project Officer, who will support the delivery of the programme and help engage with communities across the county.
For further information about the Sutherland Pride in Place Programme, please contact prideinplace@highland.gov.uk.