Two organisations in Orkney are receiving a welcome financial boost  from the Scottish Land Fund which is funded by the Scottish Government and delivered in partnership by the National Lottery Community Fund and Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

Hoy Youth Hub Award – £93,802

Hoy Youth Hub will acquire St Columba’s Church in Longhope, Hoy, Orkney. The building will be developed into a Youth Hub, which will provide the island’s only dedicated space for young people. The asset will also be used as a community space for various groups to use.

Friends of Sanday Kirk Ltd Award – £83,730

Friends of Sanday Kirk will purchase the Cross Kirk in Sanday, Orkney. The group will use the building as a multi-use community facility to provide a range of community support activities and services which focus on wellbeing, arts and a community meeting space.

A total of 11 projects in Scotland will receive £1,968,921 in this round of funding.

The awards come during Community Land Week (13 – 29 October), which community landowners across the country are marking with events and celebrations.

Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary, Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, in the Scottish Government said: 

“Many people and community organisations know exactly what their local areas need but may lack the funding to make their visions a reality.

“This is why the Scottish Land Fund is so important. It allows community groups to realise their goals and unlock the full power of community actions. It is a prime example of our plans to ensure that Scotland’s land is used in a way that benefits everyone.

“I want to congratulate the latest recipients. I know that their projects will prove hugely beneficial to their respective communities. I also want to encourage any other organisations who may be eligible to apply to the Scottish Land Fund.”

Cara Gillespie, Scottish Land Fund Committee Chair commented:

“The groups receiving funding today have all clearly identified opportunities to help their locality to thrive. By establishing new or securing existing shops, work spaces, social hubs and leisure facilities they are helping their communities become more cohesive and sustainable places to live.”

Douglas Cowan, Director of Communities and Place at HIE, added:

“These successful projects are all great examples of people taking control of local resources for the long-term benefit of their communities. All these projects announced today will help to deliver local community priorities. Ownership will give them greater control over important assets that will reap rewards for people now and for generations to come. We wish all the successful community organisations the very best in their new ventures.”