THE ISLAND communities of Scotland are set for a £4m funding boost as part of plans to improve infrastructure.
The Scottish Government announced the £4m funding package for the six island local authorities following the “economic fallout” endured from the Covid-19 pandemic.
The funding is part of the £30m Islands Programme, established to support the implementation of the National Islands Plan – a strategy to improve the quality of life for island communities.
The National Islands Plan contains 13 objectives, and over 100 specific measures to address population decline, tackle climate change and improve transport, housing, the delivery of public services and digital connectivity.
Speaking at the Convention of Highlands and Islands, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Islands, Mairi Gougeon said: “I am pleased to announce further investment from the £30m National Islands Plan infrastructure investment fund.
“I am providing £4m across the six island local authorities which will enable us to work together to support critical projects and to help make our islands even better places to live, study, work and raise a family.
“This funding is complemented by ongoing planned investment which is designed to support those living on Scotland’s islands and will involve communities in the decisions on how and where investments are made.
“The economic fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on our islands.
“The many challenges that communities have faced have been varied and that is why I am committed to delivering the National Islands Plan in partnership with our island partners.
“I know that by working together, we can maximise the impact of our investments and support good, solid projects that will help islanders to thrive.”
