HIE's long relationship working across the region means that as an agency we see the importance of a whole community approach in our most rural and remote areas. The special economic challenges these areas face mean that even the smallest intervention can have a major impact. So we work with all businesses and social enterprises to support on-going economic activity and growth.
Building on the previous successes of LEADER and Initiative at the Edge/Iomairt aig an Oir regeneration schemes, we have introduced a programme to support the future of over 40 communities in our most fragile rural areas.
Working in partnership with local authorities and other public agencies, we are investing in encouraging selected communities to develop and implement plans for local growth.
The communities themselves drive their own sustainable action planning and deliver projects with direct benefits. HIE provides funding for groups to employ a local development officer and offers additional support from its own staff.
The programme will also play a part in the way HIE delivers its community crofting development.
The aim is to build community confidence and help each one deliver specific projects to increase income levels, population retention and growth, and enhance infrastructure to provide better local services. Ideally, communities should generate an income to sustain this process for themselves in the future.
You can view all of the designated fragile areas on our interactive map.
