Assynt Leisure – Sports, Youth and Learning Centre to benefit from Axis 4 European Fisheries Funding
The Highland Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG) has awarded funding of £29,481 to Assynt Leisure – Sports, Youth and Learning Centre for a two year project to provide training, mentoring and support to individuals and businesses in Assynt. The project aims to encourage new entrants into the marine sector, support the fisheries community to develop new enterprises and support the fisheries community to expand existing businesses.
Sharon Bartram of Assynt Leisure’s Learning Centre said: “This enterprise project offers real opportunities to revitalise our fisheries community and we look forward to the challenge ahead.”
The funding has been awarded from the Highland European Fisheries Fund programme which provides support for projects which contribute to the sustainable development and improvement of the quality of life in fisheries dependent areas.
The FLAG is inviting local groups and businesses to submit expressions of interest for potential projects by 26th April 2013. Further rounds will be announced in due course. All funding must be committed by the end of 2013 although the cash drawdown period will extend into 2015.
Councillor George Farlow, Chair of the Highland Fisheries Local Action Group, said: “A wide range of projects can be considered such as those relating to skills development, promoting eco-tourism, diversifying activities, adding value to fisheries products, infrastructure improvements and the promotion of the culture and heritage aspects of fisheries communities. Projects which encourage co-operation and communication among groups locally, nationally or trans-nationally are also encouraged.”
“As funding is only available for a limited time, I would encourage businesses and groups to contact the Co-ordinator as soon as possible to discuss their project idea and for assistance through the application process. The fund is aimed at coastal communities affected by the downturn in the fishing industry and we want to ensure Highland communities do not miss out on this opportunity.”
For further guidance and to obtain a copy of the Expressions of Interest form please contact the Highland Council Planning and Development Service on 01463 702250 or email planning@highland.gov.uk This information can also be found by visiting www.highland.gov.uk