North and South Aberdeenshire LEADER launches

Scottish Rural Network Support Unit's Development Officer Don Morrison reports on recent launch events for the two new LEADER programmes in Aberdeenshire.

The new LEADER programmes for North and South Aberdeenshire were launched recently at packed events across the regions.

All three launch events had very encouraging interaction and included a run through of the application process and an opportunity to question local LEADER staff as well as discuss possible new projects. 

The South Aberdeenshire LEADER events were held on 17 and 18 November at the Station Hotel, Stonehaven and the Tullynessle Hall, Alford respectively. Each event heard how £2.8 million of funding will be used to boost communities the rural economy.

Local Action Group chair Liam Smyth outlined the themes of their strategy which are: connecting people and places, developing key economic sectors, promoting and protecting the environment, enriching and positive activities for all, and cooperation with other countries and areas. 

The North Aberdeenshire LEADER event was held on 19 November at a full Baden Powell centre in Turriff where the audience heard how £3.3 million will be used across their region to benefit communities and the rural economy.

Local Action Group chair Duncan Leece outlined the themes of their strategy which are: places, connectivity, business competitiveness, better opportunities and also cooperation.

You can find out more about the programmes on the North Aberdeenshire LEADER website and the South Aberdeenshire LEADER website.

If you have an idea for a LEADER project for these areas you can complete an Expression of Interest form on our website.