Maritime heritage initiative among projects given funding go-ahead

SHETLAND councillors have given the green light to funding for projects including a shed for the Walls Show field and a new maritime heritage scheme.

The funding comes from the Coastal Communities Fund, which is paid for by net revenue generated by Scottish Crown Estate assets.

The council administers the fund, and any applications for a value of more than £50,000 have to go in front of councillors.

Members of the SIC’s development committee approved funding of nearly £97,000 to Shetland Amenity Trust towards a new maritime heritage and traditional boat building project.

This will adapt the museum’s boat shed to enable greater access, as well as install interpretation. The project will also provide winter storage for working wooden boats, as well as a space for events and workshops.

The aim of the project is to encourage interaction with Shetland’s maritime traditions by improving knowledge and an understanding of the practical skills involved in traditional boat building.

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Questions were raised about why Shetland Charitable Trust (SCT) – which provides core funding to the amenity trust – is not providing money for the project.

The SIC’s economic development manager Tommy Coutts said he understood funding from the SCT was for the maintenance of existing buildings rather than the development of facilities.

He added he thought the project was a “clear fit” for the Coastal Communities Fund.

A grant of up to £62,253 was also approved for the Walls and District Agricultural Society which will go towards a new shed for the Walls Show.

This will help the show host an increased number of entries, improve accessibility and provide extra storage.

A grant of up to £53,109 was also given to the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) for an inclusive transport project.

The RVS is seeking to improve the service and support it offers to older and vulnerable people by buying a wheelchair accessible vehicle and recruiting a driver.

Meanwhile an application from Wild Skies Shetland for funding to employ a part-time development worker was approved under delegated authority, as its value was less than £50,000.