HIE invests in community assets in Shetland’s outer isles

Facilities at the Unst Boating Club are being upgraded to become more energy efficient and accessible to visitors and local people. As a vital part in the community’s marine activities, the improved facilities will enable more people to participate in regattas and seafaring events.

Baltasound in Unst attracts many visitors by sea on cruise ships and yachts. The £280,000 project was awarded £50,000 by HIE to help modernise and decarbonise the building. The installation of solar panels and insulation will enhance the club’s long-term financial prospects while also benefiting the environment.

Fetlar Community Association (FCA) received £23,000 from HIE for insulation improvements to the roof of the community hall, which is an important asset in the village and is used regularly by residents and visitors to the island. In a bid to become more carbon neutral, FCA has plans to replace the windows and install solar panels as well as a small wind turbine.

Both projects have also been supported by Shetland’s Coastal Communities Fund, administered by Shetland Islands Council.

Other projects being undertaken by community groups on Shetland’s outer isles over the last few months have been supported by HIE through the Scottish Land Fund – a Scottish Government funded programme delivered in partnership by HIE and the National Lottery Community Fund.

These include the purchase of the Whalsay Kirk, which was awarded more than £80,000 SLF support. Whalsay Kirk Development plans to transform the building into an invaluable community asset, ensuring it is given a new lease of life for generations to come.

The North Yell Development Council (NYDC) was awarded more than £140,000 through SLF to buy the Cullivoe shop. NYDC will take over the running of the shop, securing employment in what is an important amenity and gathering space for the community.

Through SLF, NYDC also received £99,000 to buy units 3 and 4 at Sellafirth Business Park, North Yell. The group has been using the premises to provide a multi-use office, heritage, events and training space, which will be used by local agencies, individuals and community groups.

Katrina Wiseman, area manager for HIE in Shetland, said: “Community management and development of local assets is vital to the resilience and prosperity of our more peripheral island communities. These initiatives in Shetland’s outer isles are all great examples.

“Through the purchase of land, properties and other assets, communities in Shetland’s outer isles can generate income to create jobs, provide vital services, to build and improve housing and much more. Most of these projects will provide facilities for visitors to encourage them to stay longer thereby supporting other businesses and related employment in the islands. The various energy efficiency features of these developments will also contribute to the drive towards a net zero region.”