JOHN Swinney has announced £3 million to support island community projects.
The cash will support 13 projects across 12 islands over the next year as part of the Islands programme fund.
The First Minister confirmed the successful funding ahead of a visit to the Grimsay Heritage Centre.
The centre will receive £600,000 to strengthen its role as a cultural and economic hub for the local community, supporting population retention and attracting new people to live and work on the island
Some £393,000 will go towards regenerating two neglected buildings on Skye into community hubs, including space for childcare, a gym and rental units.
And £302,000 will help establish a permanent veterinary facility in Tiree.
Swinney said: “Our island communities have so much potential, and this funding will help them pursue ambitions rooted in local priorities, strengthening their long-term resilience and prosperity.
“From delivering critical infrastructure to offering opportunities for small businesses, these projects will support employment, generate revenue and improve community wellbeing.
“The Scottish Government is committed to making islands even more attractive places for people to live, work and raise families – securing the populations and livelihoods that island communities need to create a sustainable future.
“Grimsay Heritage Centre is a fantastic example of how a strong community hub can benefit the local area, serving both as a social space, visitor attraction and a beacon of local heritage.
“This funding will help the centre to strengthen its contribution to the local economy and deliver a wider range of initiatives for the benefit of its community.”
Sara Stewart, centre manager at Grimsay Community Association said: “We are delighted to welcome Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, to Ceann na h-Àirigh.
“The £600,000 landmark investment will help create a lasting community hub, protecting Grimsay’s unique maritime, crofting and cultural heritage while expanding opportunities for local people and visitors.
“It is a significant step towards securing a vibrant future for the island, ensuring Ceann na h-Àirigh continues to bring the community together and share Grimsay’s story for generations to come.”
The full list of island projects to be funded are:
- Achnacroish Affordable Homes, Lismore: £272,506
- Bendoran Marine Enterprise Hub, Mull: £345,500
- Sustaining Tiree’s Crofting Community, Tiree: £302,949
- Canna Contractor Accommodation, Canna: £76,000
- Eigg Camping Pods Expansion, Eigg: £87,602
- Gaeltec Community Hub Phase 1, Skye: £393,000
- Kinloch Village Road and Track Improvement Programme, Rum: £355,112
- Grimsay Together, Grimsay: £600,000
- Orkney’s Creative Catalyst, Mainland Orkney: £71,773
- Repurposing of St Rognvald’s House, Mainland Orkney: £203,133
- Mid Yell Pier Amenity Building, Yell: £156,496
- Speldiburn Community Hub Enhancement, Bressay: £77,150
- UHI Shetland Hairdressing Training Salon, Mainland Shetland: £58,779
