Communities doing it for themselves

There are 66 communityowned assets in Argyll and Bute which have benefited from more than £6million of public sector investment. How other communities can become more resilient by creating income streams and making the most of locally-owned assets is the theme of one of the free events at Argyll Enterprise Week. The day aims to help individuals and groups make real and sustainable improvements within their communities. Community asset purchase is the start of a long journey, often to reverse many years of decline. When communities purchase the land on which their people live and work, it provides the potential to reinvigorate areas, develop economic opportunities and improve the prospects of future generations. Ian Hepburn, chairman of Community Land Scotland, which represents Scotland’s new generation of community land owners, will lead sessions in Arrochar’s Three Villages Hall, on November 10, aimed at communities interested in buying assets and developing projects. Argyll and Bute Council’s asset transfer team will also be on hand to highlight the support it can provide to communities. The day will include case studies, as well as networking opportunities and workshops.