Stromness Community Development Trust  has been awarded £138,054 to purchase the Stromness Community Centre (including play park) from Orkney Islands Council.  They plan to further develop the asset as a community facility, offering a wide range of services and space for hire.   

The funding is amongst 10 projects totalling £1,975,563, that have been announced in the most recent awards from the Scottish Land Fund.

Cara Gillespie, Scottish Land Fund Committee Chair said:

“By providing funding that is targeted directly at local needs, the Scottish Land Fund is helping both urban and rural communities to flourish. The groups involved have developed strategic goals and clear ambitions about how these assets will help their localities to thrive.” 

The Scottish Land Fund reopened to applications in April 2021. The programme is funded by the Scottish Government and delivered in partnership by the National Lottery Community Fund and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, both of which have extensive experience of helping communities to acquire and develop their assets for over a decade. 

Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary, Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, said:  

“I think what is so incredible about those receiving Scottish Land Fund awards is that each is an example of people coming together to take really positive, practical action to create a place for others to come together and benefit the community – often securing the future of a beloved local landmark.

“I want to congratulate all of those who will be able to drive their projects forward with this support and wish them the very best.”