A dynamic and forward-looking Lochaber Area Place Plan (APP) has been officially approved, setting out a clear vision for the region’s future based on the aspirations of its communities.
Agreed on Monday 27 January 2025, the plan connects local priorities with major strategic frameworks, including FW2040, the Highland Investment Plan, the Highland Local Development Plan, the Highland Outcome Improvement Plan, and the Strategic Housing Investment Plan.
At its core, the Lochaber APP emphasises the urgent need for improved health and wellbeing services, including care and mental health support, as well as access to affordable and suitable housing.
Other key focus areas include greater empowerment for young people, enhanced public transport and infrastructure, sustainable tourism management, economic growth, and developing a highly skilled workforce.
Lochaber Area Committee Vice Chair, Councillor John Grafton, highlighted the importance of the plan in shaping the future of the region.
“Area Place Plans are crucial for Lochaber as they are led by the communities themselves.
“They provide a structured way to set priorities for both people and place, helping to attract investment, improve service delivery, and ensure that resources are used effectively.”
The APP is designed to be a flexible and evolving document.
Sub-regional plans will continue to be added, and some priorities already have action plans in development.
This adaptability ensures that as community needs change, the plan can adjust accordingly.
By laying out clear goals and strategies, the plan will help The Highland Council and its partners to target funding effectively, demonstrating the real impact of every investment.
It also provides a framework for individual communities to create their own plans, empowering them to take a lead in driving local improvements.
Community engagement will be central to the APP’s success, fostering a shared understanding of how place-based planning shapes development, service provision, and collaboration between organisations and local residents.
The Lochaber Area Place Plan aims to serve as a practical guide for decision-making, ensuring that investments and policies align with real local needs.
Residents and stakeholders can now access the plan and follow its progress as it shapes the region’s future.