Community Leaders wanted for Sutherland's Pride in Place Programme Neighbourhood Board
It is hoped that, once the board is formed, the boundaries of the fund may be amended to include communities in central Sutherland that have been left out of the scheme.
It is hoped that, once the board is formed, the boundaries of the fund may be amended to include communities in central Sutherland that have been left out of the scheme. Nominations for the Neighbourhood Board close on Tuesday 25th August.
The call for board members follows the appointment of Frances Gunn MBE and Ian Ross OBE as Co-Chairs of the Sutherland Neighbourhood Board at the end of July. The board will work collaboratively to develop a shared vision for Sutherland, encourage community participation and support the delivery of projects that strengthen local economy, culture, environment and quality of life.
Applications are welcomed from people of all backgrounds, including representatives from community organisations, local businesses, the voluntary sector, young people, and individuals with an interest in community development and regeneration. Becoming a member of the board is an opportunity for local residents, community groups, businesses and organisations to help influence projects and investment that will benefit communities across Sutherland in the next decade.
Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee said: "This is an exciting opportunity for people from across Sutherland to have a direct influence on the future of their communities. We are looking for enthusiastic individuals with a range of skills, experiences and perspectives who can help ensure local priorities are at the heart of decision-making."
The Kyle of Sutherland communities, left out of the Sutherland Pride in Place Programme
The multi-million Sutherland Pride in Place fund is set to cover East, North and West Sutherland, missing out Central and South Sutherland (the communities around the Kyle of Sutherland).
Affected communities have questioned the decision to leave out Central and South Sutherland, with Highland Council Assistant Chief Executive Malcolm Macleod assuring that there is some flexibility within the scheme to request boundary changes, although any amendments would require approval from the UK Government.
Ward 1 Highland Councillor Michael Baird said: "I have raised the issue with our convener at The Highland Council. At the moment, a board has to be formed. From a councillor point of view, one of the first requirements that we will be asking the newly formed board is to include the centre area of Ward 1."
Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross MP Jamie Stone commented: "Having been involved from the very beginning in securing this funding - including meeting personally with the Secretary of State to make the case for this investment - I am delighted that we have been able to secure this package of support for our community.
"In appointing Frances Gunn MBE and Ian Ross OBE as joint chairs, I have every confidence that this funding will be put to the best possible use. As respected local people with strong links across the community, they have a proven track record of delivery. They are also well placed to ensure these resources are targeted where they will have the greatest impact and deliver lasting benefits for the wider community.
"I also hope this now encourages others to come forward to join the Neighbourhood Board. It is important that the board reflects a broad range of skills, experience and perspectives so that, working alongside local and national partners, we can maximise the opportunities this investment presents and deliver the very best outcomes for our Highland community."
How to Apply
Anyone interested in joining the Sutherland Neighbourhood Board is invited to submit an application by 5pm on Tuesday 25th August.
For more information about the role and how to apply, visit the project's website or contact by email.
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