Community project funding available

Applications for financial help from the new Arran Community Fund are now being accepted.

Details of the funding provided by ScottishPower Renewables’ Beinn an Tuirc 3 Windfarm can be found on the front page of Arran Community Council’s new website with individuals and groups welcome to review the guidance notes.

The council has confirmed it will receive an annual index-linked fund of around £25,000 from the community benefit fund for the next 25 years. The fund will be awarded three times a year, with a funding cycle budget of around £8,300.

It is intended this funding will be awarded upon merit with the stated goal of improving the quality of life and/or community bonds within Arran; what this entails is up to you. It is available to all sections of the Arran community to improve community services and help establish sustainable projects that support the Arran Islands Plan which is being developed in participation with many island groups and has the North Ayrshire Council officer’s support.

There are details to help understand if projects are eligible and explain the exclusions to ensure applicants meet the conditions of the grant.

It has taken longer than anticipated to get this moving as a result of many factors including establishing banking and other administration needs.

The new website has been created by a local skills resource and further features will be developed as required.

The site provides access to the community council’s minutes and the Arran Ferry Committee minutes.

It has useful links to other support organisations and a section to help visitors understand the varied features offered in the villages the community council represents.

Community councillors recently attended the Free for All event at Arran High School, This successful gathering highlighted the many groups and programmes running across the island. It is hoped this new Arran Community Fund cash may help expand these programmes.

The Free for All event was a chance for community councillors to speak to residents who expressed interest in the council’s activities and the community council hopes this may help fill the current vacancies for representatives living in Lamlash, Brodick and Shiskine Valley. These positions are open to residents aged over 16 who can prove permanent residence in the respective villages.

This is a positive step forward for the island and we hope to report the successful applicants from the first round of funding in the near future.

Find out how to apply at https:// arrancommunitycouncil.org.uk/ about-us/.