OREANDA-NEWS. Nine community-led initiatives in Caithness and Sutherland are celebrating after being awarded a share of over f86,000 from SSE’s Strathy North wind farm fund in its first funding round. The grants mean that projects worth over f160,000 can be progressed throughout the locale over the coming months.

The Strathy North community investment fund will pay out f170,000 annually to charity and not-for-profit groups over the next 25 years, with decisions on successful projects taken by a local panel.

Initiatives to gain funding cover a diverse range of groups and age ranges.  Examples are below:

  • Farr Primary School Parent Council received f23,000 towards the installation of a multi-use games area, to be located on the site of an existing run down tennis court.
  • North Coast Leisure was awarded f15,000 to fund swimming lessons and health sessions within the local community, saving individuals a long trip to Thurso to access services.
  • The Bettyhill Gala Committee has been awarded over f6,000 to purchase a new marquee for this year’s event.
  • Over f21,000 was granted to the Armadale clay pigeon club, to enhance the variety of clay pigeon shooting available for  locals and visitors.
  • The Halladale Film Club was awarded over f6,000 to purchase film and sound equipment for the Halladale Hall.
  • Strathnaver Public Hall received nearly f8,000 to refurbish their kitchen, and replace external doors which will allow the hall to hold local events again.

Tongue and Farr Sports Association Company Secretary Jim Johnston said:

“The Tongue and Farr Sports Association is absolutely delighted to receive this award from the Strathy North Community Fund.  The North Coast Leisure Centre in Bettyhill, which we own and run on behalf of the local community, is now in its 20th year of continuous operation but has been struggling financially in the recent past due to a combination of factors beyond our control.  The f15,000 award will enable us to maintain the services we have developed and help us plan towards a sustainable future."

North, West and Central Sutherland Councillor Linda Munro said:

“The Strathy North fund is a real boon to the local communities - what an absolutely fabulous way to start the new year: funding in place and ready to roll out your new project. I understand that initial uptake has been limited in this first round but I believe the fund will support a wide range of community projects once  folks see how easy it is to apply.”