Highland Council has approved a £2 million investment to enhance environmental and community services across the region.
The funding package, agreed at a budget meeting on 6 March, will support initiatives including a community development fund, a new operating model, Access Rangers and improvements in grass cutting maintenance.
Convener of Highland Council, Councillor Bill Lobban, said the investment demonstrates the Council’s commitment to creating a resilient, sustainable and nature-positive Highland.
A total of £1.105 million is allocated to environmental services, while £1 million will support a development fund and a community-focused operating model.
A new ‘Repair the Highlands Challenge Fund’ will receive £500,000 to encourage communities to develop recycling and re-use projects.
This fund will run over the next two financial years, allowing groups time to build support for proposals aimed at reducing waste and promoting upcycling and repair schemes.
An additional £500,000 will support a community-focused operating model, which will integrate local services and create 10 new jobs by decentralising council functions.
Councillor Raymond Bremner, Leader of Highland Council, said communities should play a key role in shaping the future of local services.
He highlighted that the investment will provide autonomy and resources to communities while improving service delivery and local coordination.
The ‘Repair the Highlands Challenge Fund’ will align with the Council’s Net Zero and Community Wealth Building strategies to enhance sustainability and economic resilience.
A further £655,000 has been earmarked for the Access Rangers service, securing 18 seasonal ranger posts for 2025-2026.
Established in 2021, the Access Rangers patrol visitor sites, carry out maintenance and educate tourists on environmental responsibility.
Grass cutting maintenance will benefit from a £450,000 investment, aimed at improving community amenity spaces and tackling biodiversity challenges.
Chair of the Communities and Place Committee, Councillor Graham MacKenzie, said Access Rangers have played a key role in protecting the environment and promoting responsible tourism.
He emphasised that educating visitors about their role in preserving Highland landscapes benefits both the environment and local communities.
The investment in grass cutting aligns with the Council’s Ecology Strategy, balancing community needs with efforts to combat biodiversity loss.
Councillor MacKenzie added that improved maintenance of green spaces will enhance local amenities while promoting wildlife and plant conservation.
He stressed the importance of delivering actions that benefit the environment, economy and communities, with the goal of fostering a sustainable and nature-positive Highland.
