The Sanday Kirk conversion has been shortlisted in the SURF (Scotland’s Regeneration Forum) 2024 awards.
The SURF Awards are delivered each year by SURF with over 300 cross-sector member organisations across Scotland, in partnership with the Scottish Government. 2024 marks the 26 years of the SURF Awards process.
This year there are 15 shortlisted projects. The conversion of the Sanday Kirk is in the category Community Led Generation. Also in that category is Cranhill Development Trust (Glasgow), and Bute Community Forest (Argyll and Bute).
Last year The Orkney News was pleased to report that The Friends of Sanday Kirk community group received funding to acquire the historic Cross Kirk church on Sanday through the Scottish Land Fund.
Link: Friends of Sanday Kirk Facebook page
SURF Chair Brian MacDonald said:
“Last year, SURF celebrated 25 years of the SURF Awards. This year we carry on that tradition in times which continue to pose challenges for community regeneration. In these circumstances it continues to be important to recognise the endeavours and successes of those involved in efforts which go the extra mile to bring advantages for their communities, and which can act as an inspiration for others.”
The judging panel will be carrying out visits throughout October to all of these diverse projects to develop a better understanding of their impact and the situations they are responding to. Before deciding on a winning project in each category.
The five category winners will then be announced by Scottish Government Minister for Employment and Investment, Tom Arthur MSP, on the evening of Thursday 5 December at the 2024 SURF Awards Presentation Dinner event in Glasgow’s Voco Grand Central Hotel.
Investment Minister in the Scottish Government Tom Arthur said:
“The SURF awards are an excellent opportunity to recognise and mark the dedication and hard work that takes place in communities across Scotland.
“Regeneration – and specifically community led-regeneration – plays an important role in improving people’s economic, social and environmental wellbeing. The Scottish Government’s ongoing work with SURF showcases what communities can achieve and helps inspire others to make positive changes in the places they live.
“I congratulate all of those who have been shortlisted and look forward to presenting the successful projects with their awards later in the year.”
The 2024 SURF Awards are delivered by SURF in partnership with the Scottish Government, with additional support from Creative Scotland, Scotland’s Towns Partnership and Scottish Procurement Alliance.
You can view the shortlist of all 15 projects here.
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