LEADER funding for Dingwall and Seaforth communities

With the recent approval of the Dingwall and Seaforth Local Community Development Plan, the way is now clear for communities across The Highland Council’s Dingwall and Seaforth Ward to apply for £393,378 of funding available to them over the next 3 years with the potential of even more funding thereafter.  There is also £3 million available to assist strategic Highland-wide projects.

The Highland LEADER development themes are:

• Development Planning & Community Capacity Building;
• Culture and Heritage;
• Training and Learning Opportunities;
• Access to Activities, Facilities and Services;
• Land, Environment and Access to the Countryside;
• Renewables;
• Tourism; and
• Social Enterprise and Micro-Businesses.

Highland Councillor Peter Cairns who is Chair of the local LEADER Area Partnership said:  “This injection of European money can make a real difference and help people realise their ambitions to deliver projects and activities locally. Our job now is to encourage communities to put forward applications and make the most of this opportunity.  We intend to run a funding workshop on Saturday 25th April to simplify the process for local groups.  At this workshop we also hope to offer information on other funding sources and give practical help in filling out application forms.”

LEADER grants of up to 45% of eligible project costs can be applied for; the minimum grant award is £1,000 and the maximum award will be determined by Local Area Partnerships.

Full information about the LEADER programme and details on how to apply for funding can be found by visiting the website www.highlandleader.com or by contacting the local LEADER Development Officer, Liz Whiteford, on 07920  543719 or liz.whiteford@highland.gov.uk, for help and advice.