Sutherland is looking to the future with a fresh sense of purpose, as members of the Sutherland County Committee have adopted the new Sutherland County Area Place Plan.
The plan sets out to support and celebrate the ambitions of local communities, ensuring they are at the heart of decisions about the county’s development.
Councillors also pledged to champion the plan whenever possible, weaving its priorities into wider strategies, funding opportunities and future projects.
Councillor Richard Gale, Chair of the Sutherland County Committee, welcomed the move.
He said:
“The Area Place Plan captures the spirit and ambitions of our communities.
“Our goal is to help Sutherland flourish as a sustainable, liveable and prosperous place.
“We will continue to listen carefully to local voices and work hand in hand to turn this plan into meaningful action.”
The plan has been shaped through a strong partnership between the Sutherland Community Partnership and the Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust, who led a thorough review of local priorities.
Extensive face-to-face consultation was held across the county, followed by a series of lively community engagement sessions in Bettyhill, Kinlochbervie, Golspie, Lochinver and Bonar Bridge.
Emerging priorities in the plan are grouped under three themes: People, Place and Prosperity.
This simple but powerful framework will help communities focus on what matters most to them and give them the tools to drive positive change in their areas.
Key priorities include improving access to healthcare, strengthening community resilience, enhancing housing and infrastructure, creating employment opportunities, enriching education and promoting sustainable tourism.
Councillor Gale added:
“By engaging directly with our communities, we build a shared understanding of how a place-based approach can shape a brighter future for Sutherland.”
“Ensuring that local voices are heard is vital.
“By fostering collaboration and making the best use of local resources, we can create a strong foundation for delivering services and achieving the ambitions set out in this plan.”
He concluded:
“This is a community-led initiative.
“I am excited to continue working closely with local people to bring their priorities to life.”
