Committee Vice Chair Hails Caithness Wards Discretionary Funds Benefits

13th November 2024

The Vice Chair of the Caithness Committee, Councillor Struan Mackie has expressed his delight at the number of worthwhile local projects that have benefitted from Ward Discretionary Funding in this financial year.

All Council Wards receive a discretionary budget, and it is for Ward Councillors to consider what they wish to commit funds to, in line with Highland Council objectives and outcomes.

Councillor Struan Mackie said: "It is always a privilege and a pleasure for Ward Councillors to make discretionary budget awards. One of the most rewarding aspects is that it allows members to utilise their local knowledge and work with local organisations to make positive improvements to our communities."

Seven community projects in the Thurso and Northwest Caithness Ward have received a total of £7,540 of support broken down as follows:

Community Food Initiatives North East - Fareshare in Highland - £1,690
Caithness Chamber of Commerce - Caithness Transport Forum - £500
Pentland Firth Yacht Club – Replacement Windows - £1,450
Highlife Highland – Active School Coaching & Equipment - £1.500
Sidh Chailleann Art – "Industrial Caithness" Exhibition - £1,000
Thurso Youth Club SCIO – Holiday Activities - £1,000
Thurso Community Council – Thurso Town Centre initiative 2024 - £400.

Since April 2024 four projects in the Wick and East Caithness Ward have received a share of £4,823.60 of Ward Discretionary support.

They are:

Community Food Initiatives North East – Fareshare in Highland - £2,763
Caithness Chamber of Commerce – Caithness Transport Forum - £500
Highlife Highland – Youth Session Resources - £999
Argyll Square Area Association – Replacement Litter Bin - £561.60