The SNP Government has allocated £63,000 funding to the Communities of Arran Seabed Trust (COAST) and £67,000 to Millport Town Hall on Cumbrae.
COAST will use the funding to purchase a boat to enable marine research to take place off Arran’s coast, deliver citizen science, local and tourist excursions, and joint marine survey and restoration projects. Having the boat will create one new job for a skipper, support seven existing positions and will allow for community and volunteer training for 8-12 people.
Millport Town Hall will use their grant to install green technologies and energy saving measures within the ongoing redevelopment of the building.
To be awarded funding, projects must focus on developing sustainable economic activities on islands with the majority of projects having a net zero theme, while also supporting the delivery of the SNP Government’s National Islands Plan.
Arran and Cumbrae’s MSP Kenneth Gibson said:
“As a proud COAST Ambassador and having worked with them on many projects over the years, I am delighted COAST has been able to secure £63,000 which I know it will be put to very good use.
“Their volunteers have been instrumental in securing the South Arran MPA, Scotland’s first No Take Zone in Lamlash and earlier this year, the Arran Snorkel Trail. I know this project will also have a positive impact on the island.
“I also congratulate Millport Town Hall, on their £67,000 grant for their innovative project. They are a fantastic example of how a community can pull together and make things happen!”
The Fund is managed by Inspiring Scotland on behalf of the SNP Government. It is backed by £2 million of SNP Government funding, which comes from the £9.5 million committed to the Islands Programme for 2021/22.
Projects should be completed by 31 March 2022.
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