A beloved community hub in Easter Ross has secured a welcome boost to help it continue serving locals and visitors alike.
The Seaboard Centre in Balintore, run by Seaboard Memorial Hall Limited, has received funding from Highland Opportunity Investments Limited (HOIL) to support its ongoing development plans.
The centre, affectionately known to many as the beating heart of the Seaboard Villages, is a charitable organisation that’s been operating since 2001.
With a team of 15 dedicated staff, it reinvests every penny of its profits back into the community, providing spaces for meetings, events, co-working and much more.
The Seaboard Café, a favourite with locals and tourists, serves up freshly made lunches and home baking, while the building also houses essential visitor facilities including disabled-access toilets and showers, laundry amenities and even a chemical waste disposal point.
The new funding from HOIL, which is The Highland Council’s own business loan company, will support the centre’s ambitions for growth and allow it to keep delivering vital services during a financially tight period.
This includes continuing with recent projects such as the creation of three handsome new stone entrances to the Seaboard Villages, and upcoming plans for a new website celebrating the story of local hero John Ross.
Maureen Ross, Director of Seaboard Memorial Hall Limited, said the loan had come at just the right time.
“Cashflow for any business is vital and we take that very seriously,” she said.
“With the timing of VAT recovery on a large project, we realised we’d be under pressure for a few months.
“To keep things running smoothly, we approached HOIL for a loan to bridge that gap.”
“The whole process was easy and everyone was very helpful.
“We’re grateful for the support.”
HOIL is known for its straightforward approach and encourages applications from community organisations as well as private businesses.
Councillor Paul Oldham, Chair of HOIL, welcomed the partnership.
“The Seaboard Centre provides invaluable services for the people and visitors of Easter Ross,” he said.
“We’re proud to support them through our Community Loan Fund, which is designed to make finance accessible and affordable for groups across the Highlands.”
The support ensures the Seaboard Centre can continue its mission to serve as a thriving gathering place, welcoming all with warmth, practicality and a true sense of Highland hospitality.
To find out more about the support HOIL can provide businesses with, visit here or email hoil@highland.gov.uk
