Comhairle nan Eilean Siar have allocated £1.1 Million from their Capital Programme to a fund which supports eligible groups to develop community-based projects in their local areas.  

The Community Regeneration Fund (CRF) is an entirely new scheme which replaces the successful ACE Challenge, Community Initiated Projects, Village Hall Match Fund and Arts Capital funding programmes.

Cllr Archie Campbell, Chairman of the Sustainable Development Committee said:
“We have seen some first-rate projects being implemented across the islands as a result of the previous schemes. I am sure that there will be a significant number of projects seeking funding support from this scheme and I look forward to seeing applications from across our communities.” 

The Community Regeneration Fund is open to any community group which meets the required criteria and brings forward a well-planned, sustainable project. The CRF is a ‘capital’ grant scheme that aims to support projects which will assist communities to enhance their future through the generation of sustainable social and economic opportunities. The injection of £1.1 Million from the Comhairle will ensure that there will be financial support available over the next 4 years for Community-led capital projects.

Cllr Campbell continued:
“This £1.1 Million allocation underlines our commitment to community regeneration.  Supporting local communities to develop sustainable projects throughout the Outer Hebrides will certainly enhance the social and economic fabric of the area.”

The fund also addresses the growing importance of the Arts and Culture in the islands with ‘creative industries’ seen as having the highest potential for economic growth of all sectors. Arts Development support is available for capital projects and is open to applications from fully constituted groups.

Nigel Scott
Communications Officer
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk