Cash boost for Cullivoe

THERE are hopes that new employment and tourism opportunities will be brought to Yell after a local community group received over £113,000 from the Scottish Land Fund.

The money will be used by North Yell Development Council to purchase two separate areas of land in Cullivoe.

One will be used to extend the existing industrial estate in the view of supporting local businesses, while the other is foreshore land which will house a proposed new marina development including a campsite, pontoon berths and visitor facilities.

North Yell Development Council chairman Marc Lawson said the group was “delighted” to receive the grant.

“This funding will allow us to move our projects forward as we look to develop the industrial, employment and tourism opportunities in our local community,” he said.

“We would like to thank all those involved in helping us to reach this stage and to the community of North Yell for pulling together to build a better future.”

The funding boost comes after a five-turbine wind farm was launched by the group last year to bring funds into the local community over time.

Scottish Land Fund committee chairman John Watt said: “In bringing two pieces of land into community ownership, the project has the potential to bring huge economic benefits to the island, including increased tourism opportunities.”

Sandra Holmes, head of community assets at Highlands and Islands Enterprise, said the group has “worked hard to make their ambitions a reality”.

“It will be great to see the community and visitors enjoying the benefits of the new marina facilities as well as the development of the land for local businesses and we wish them all the very best in their new venture,” she said.

The Scottish Land Fund is funded by the Scottish Government and delivered in partnership by the Big Lottery Fund and Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

Earlier this year a project to develop the Auld Skul in South Nesting received nearly £50,000 from the fund.