Ross-shire site in Balmacara ‘can be preserved for generations to come’
A ROSS-SHIRE site can “be preserved for generations to come” following a successful community bid.
A determined campaign by a Lochalsh community to acquire a former campsite for community use has borne fruit with the receipt of a £162,130 funding award.
Balmacara Community Trust (BCT) secured the boost from the Scottish Land Fund to buy the former Balmacara Campsite from Forestry and Land Scotland.
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The site will remain natural woodland with paths and gathering spaces for recreation and community events. The group will also upgrade the derelict office building and will potentially reinstate the campsite.
Mike Shucksmith, the chairman of BCT, said the trust is “thrilled” with the grant. He said: “This award through the Community Asset Transfer programme will enable the trust to preserve and protect the site for generations to come. The land is regularly used for walking with linking trails to further afield, dog walking and other recreational pursuits - even sledging at this time of year. The award will also allow the trust to have its first development officer too.
“Within the award is funding for further surveys of the woodland and of the building involved in the sale of the site, these surveys also have funding support from HIE.
“We are very grateful for the support and encouragement we have received for this project from the Scottish Land Fund, Forestry and Land Scotland, HIE, but also from the community that this woodland site means so much to.”
The Scottish Land Fund reopened to applications in April 2021. The programme is funded by the Scottish Government and delivered in partnership by the National Lottery Community Fund and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, both of which have extensive experience of helping communities to acquire and develop their assets for over a decade.
This project was in response to community surveys, engagement events, drop in sessions and phone interviews conducted by SKS Scotland early last year that helped shape a business plan. A woodland management plan will follow.
Work on the Old Mill Hall continues with two further funding applications being placed in November to the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the SSE Hydro Fund. BCT said: “Costs are continuing to rise on this project and we continue to try and meet these with supportive funding organisations.”
Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary, Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, said: “I think what is so incredible about those receiving Scottish Land Fund awards is that each is an example of people coming together to take really positive, practical action to create a place for others to come together and benefit the community - often securing the future of a beloved local landmark. I want to congratulate all of those who will be able to drive their projects forward with this support and wish them the very best.”
Cara Gillespie, Scottish Land Fund Committee chair, said: “By providing funding that is targeted directly at local needs, the Scottish Land Fund is helping both urban and rural communities to flourish. The groups involved have developed strategic goals and clear ambitions about how these assets will help their localities to thrive.”
Sandra Holmes, head of community assets at HIE, said: "The successful projects announced today across Scotland are all fantastic examples of people taking control of local resources for the long-term benefit of their communities. These initiatives will not only enhance local amenities and services but also give local people a sense of ownership and pride. It will give communities greater control over important assets that will reap rewards for people now and for generations to come. We are excited to see the positive impacts these projects will bring and wish every group the very best in developing these excellent projects.”
