Orkney projects get LEADER funding boost

The installation of an artificial bowling green and a community hall refurbishment are the first two projects to benefit from funding from the Orkney LEADER 2014-2020 Programme.

The Kirkwall Bowling Club will install an artificial outdoor bowling green which will allow assurances of play irrespective of the weather, extending the playing season and increasing the opportunity for members and non-members to use the facility.

Burray Community Association will see an upgrade to the Burray Hall which will enable increased use of the hall for groups and events and give the community a more modern and energy efficient facility.

Councillor James Stockan, chair of the Council’s Development and Infrastructure Committee said:

"LEADER has already brought many benefits to our communities over the last decade and we are very pleased to see that more projects are receiving financial assistance. Facilities such as bowling greens and community halls are central for bringing communities together, and it’s essential that we continue to support these developments."

Francesca Couperwhite, chair of the Orkney Local Action Group, said:

"The projects awarded funding to date demonstrate the positive benefits and strength of what community groups can do when they come together.

"This was the first round of applications that we reviewed for the 2014 – 2020 LEADER Programme, with the next deadline taking place later in the summer. Many groups have submitted Expressions of Interest with a variety of exciting and innovative projects. Although LEADER is funded by the European Community, at present the programme will continue to operate as normal, so we are very much looking forward to seeing what other applications will be put forward."

Both groups also received funding from the Council’s Community Development Fund in support of the projects.

A short video about the Kirkwall Bowling Club’s application can be watched on Orkney Islands Council's Youtube Channel or below.

The next deadline for Orkney LEADER funding applications is 24 August. If you have a project that you would like to discuss, contact Amy Esslemont, Orkney LEADER Development Officer on 01856 873 535 or by email amy.esslemont@orkney.gov.uk.

If you have an project proposal you can submit an Expression of Interest on our website.

For more information on the Orkney LEADER Programme 2014 – 2020, visit the Orkney LEADER website.