Act Hubs launches at Achamore Gardens
ACT Hubs, an exciting new Argyll- based project led by Argyll and the Isles Coast and Countryside Trust (Act) has been launched.
The project aims to help communities across Argyll and the Isles to enhance visitor experiences while benefiting their community and local economy.
One of the projects already signed up to work in partnership with Act Hubs is Achamore Gardens’ volunteer programme on the Isle of Gigha.
Amy Wilson of Achamore Gardens said: ‘ The Achamore Gardens Trust exists to lead the restoration of Achamore Gardens on the Isle of Gigha.
‘Our mandate from the Gardens’ community is not only to invite people to celebrate the wild beauty of Achamore but also to facilitate participation, engagement and regeneration.
‘ Providing the gardens’ community with a high- quality volunteer programme is an integral part of our sustainable development approach to meeting the learning, health and wellbeing needs of our community and island visitors.
‘ With the assistance of Act Hubs, we will be able to facilitate the creation of new participant-focused opportunities, built around their passions, skills and ambitions.’
Act Hubs project officer Elaine Cameron and her team will be working with groups across Argyll and the Isles to help demonstrate innovative and sustainable approaches to improve tourism, support local economies and encourage people to explore their natural environment.
The Act Hubs team will provide support to community groups to develop their project ideas in to fully-formed plans ready for delivery.
Ms Cameron said ‘Communities should be able to use the detailed plans we produce to deliver their projects in their own time.
‘ This could include applying for funding to cover project costs or following a step- bystep guide to get their project started.’
Act Hubs is jointly funded by Act, the Scottish Government and the European Community Argyll and the Islands LEADER 2014-2020 programme. The project will be delivered by the project team: a full-time project officer, part-time marketing officer and part-time finance officer.
The project team will be supported and advised by a steering group.
Act Hubs launches at Achamore Gardens
Ross Lilley is one of the Act Trustees supporting Ms Cameron to deliver Act Hubs.
He said: ‘ This project gives the trust an opportunity to help Argyll residents and visitors get more out of the countryside surrounding our communities.
‘ I’m looking forward to supporting Elaine and her team help communities transform their ideas into ready-to- go projects.’