Businesses that have been taken over by a local group and run for the benefit of the community have been awarded more than £1m in grants by the Scottish Land Fund.
North Arran Community Benefit Society got £483,643 to purchase the Lochranza Hotel, which will be operated as a community inn to combat rural isolation and provide a year-round meeting space, as well as providing staff accommodation.
“All of our members and supporters were delighted to receive an offer of grant support from the Scottish Land Fund,” said Chris Traill, chair of the North Arran Community Benefit Society.
“The hotel is the focal point of our community and its absence has been keenly felt by many people living on and visiting this fantastic Island.”
The Nith Valley Leaf Trust was awarded £210,000 to transform the village shop and accompanying house in Closeburn, Dumfries.
Sarah Currie from the trust said they hoped the grant will give them “huge scope” to develop a “vibrant commercial and social hub for residents and visitors”.
Dunbar Community Bakery was awarded £124,560 to purchase the shop currently run on the high street, which will allow them to continue providing a bakery, as well as training opportunities for young people.
The bakery's Josephine McNamara said: “We’ve survived many ups and downs since we opened 11 years ago, but current energy costs are a real challenge.
“Our high street is really important to the community, and this will be a real boost for confidence all round.”
Minister, Environment, Biodiversity and Land Reform Mairi McAllan commented: “Communities know best what’s right for them, including when it comes to the ownership and use of local land and buildings.
“With support from the Scottish Land Fund, which will be doubled to £20m by 2026, more communities across Scotland are taking ownership of local assets – helping to create jobs, mitigate climate change, and tackle social isolation and loneliness.”
Cara Gillespie, chair of the Scottish Land Fund committee, added: “From projects that will create rural housing to shops offering vital services and open spaces that play an important role in community life, this round of grants will help to strengthen diverse communities across Scotland.”
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