A programme manager has been appointed to lead a new initiative aimed at helping the most fragile communities in the Argyll and the Islands Enterprise (AIE) area.

Clare Strain is managing the European-funded Community Economic Development (CED) programme and is already dealing with enquiries and receiving applications for financial assistance via the programme.  Clare, a former development officer with the Lochaber Transport Forum, is based at AIE's Lochgilphead office.

The Argyll and the Islands CED programme is a partnership initiative that seeks to target funds for sustainable development activities undertaken by communities most in need of support.  It is anticipated that over the two years (2002-03) of the CED programme, a minimum of £1.6 million will be invested in fragile communities in Argyll and its islands, Arran and the Cumbraes.  Of this, £800,000 will come from the European-funded Highlands and Islands Special Transitional Programme, with the remainder being provided by public agencies and local communities.

• The overall aim of the CED programme is to assist fragile communities in the region to enhance and develop community capacity through the generation of sustainable and economic opportunities.  A wide range of projects and actions will be supported under the programme, with the aim of:encouraging communities to take an active management role in their own future
• increasing enterprise and entrepreneurship in local communities, and;
• increasing the value of environmental, cultural and built heritage resources.

The programme invites applications for assistance from applicants who can demonstrate that their project will be of benefit to the community.

Commenting on her new post, Clare said: "I am delighted to have been appointed manager for the CED programme and look forward to the challenge of working with groups from throughout Argyll and the Islands.

"This programme can be of great benefit to many communities, particularly those in remote and fragile areas, where assistance can be given in working towards sustainable development and a more secure future."

James Hilder, chairman of the CED programme partnership said: "We want to encourage organisations in the area to come forward with their exciting and innovative proposals, which seek to develop and enhance their own communities, while creating employment and other economic opportunities. 

"The CED programme has been developed to match the aspirations of these communities and to target assistance at the most fragile areas."

Community groups wishing to seek further information or advice should contact Clare Strain on tel: 01546 605417.