| Date -24 Jun 2005 | Return to previous page |
Time is fast running out for full use to be made of the Community Economic Development (CED) Funds available in Buckie. The 3 year programme which commenced in 2002, expires in November this year, and there are still uncommitted funds, which if not taken up, will be lost to the area.
The Buckie CED project involves monies from Moray Council and Moray Badenoch & Strathspey Enterprise, which in turn drew down grant from the European Objective 2 programme. A total of £230,000 was available to be spent on Town Regeneration projects which involved some environmental improvement; tourism or heritage theme. A small steering group comprising representatives of local groups was formed to administer the funds.
Several large projects were carried out – upgrade works at Buckpool Harbour: the creation of a footpath along the old railway line at North High Street/Station area; environmental enhancements at the old station area; redevelopment of the old swimming pool site at Strathlene; signage.
A 10 point interpretation trail along the seafront will shortly be in place, and environmental upgrades in Cluny Square are planned.
However, some of the funds are uncommitted and available to be put towards new projects, but opportunities for this are running out. Mark Cross, Chairman of the Steering Group explained, “The Steering Group identified about 10 projects it wanted to see taken forward, and funds were allocated to each of these. In addition, money was set aside for any new ideas or proposals which might have come forward, and community groups were invited to apply for this. There has however been only a limited take up, and funds are still available, but must be spent by the end of November 2005. It is a clear case of use it or lose it”.
Anyone with further ideas or proposals on how these funds could be utilised is asked to contact Mr Cross on Tel 01343 563285. To be eligible, proposals must include some environmental/tourism/heritage content, which will have some benefit to the local economy. Under European rules, it is only the town of Buckie itself that is eligible.
Contact: Joyce Pirie, Public Relations Co-ordinator on 01343 563046