Five community groups across Orkney have secured funding from The Orkney Fund to develop Local Place Plans, setting out ambitions for future community-led development.
The decision was confirmed at the latest board meeting, with an initial budget of £40,000 allocated to support the projects.
Funding has been awarded to Firth & Stenness Community Council, Harray & Sandwick Community Council, Holm Community Council, and North Ronaldsay Development Trust.
A provisional allocation has also been set aside to support a refreshed Kirkwall Place Plan through Kirkwall & St Ola Community Council.
Local Place Plans allow communities to shape proposals for their area, reflecting the aspirations of residents and guiding development in line with local needs.
The Orkney Fund Chair, Stephen Hagan, said the outcome reflects the strong interest shown by communities across the islands.
“We are delighted to approve an initial allocation of The Orkney Fund to support the development of a number of Place Plans across Orkney, including Mainland and our most northerly island, demonstrating this fund is supporting the whole of Orkney,” he said.
“This is a substantial amount of funding which will ensure up to five communities will be supported to create Place Plans based on the needs and views of local residents.
“Unsuccessful applications will be considered in future rounds.
“There will also be opportunities for those in the process of exploring place making to apply in later rounds also.”
The Orkney Fund has also reported strong interest in feasibility studies and capacity-building projects, with more rounds of funding expected to open in the months ahead.
