Path project is given a £270K boost by Dorenell Wind Farm Community Fund
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A PROJECT to develop a network of local walking routes in a rural area of Moray has been given a major boost.
The Dorenell Community Links Path project, aiming to improve access in the fund area, has been awarded £269,400 from the Dorenell Wind Farm Community Fund.
The money, provided by the EDF Renewables UK and administered by Foundation Scotland, will fund a part-time contract for two years to oversee the implementation of the project. It will also provide a budget for initial capital works to create the path network.
Panel member and representative from Dufftown and District Community Association, June Donald said: “The steering group has devoted both time and consideration to the enlargement and improvement of the path networks, both across and between the fund areas.
"The project will deliver, over several years, the desired outcomes of improved access, with consequent health benefits, to local users – existing and new – and making the area more of a desirable destination for the out-door orientated visitor.
"Funding thoughtful, long-term projects like this should be the 'raison d’etre' of community funds like Dorenell. The legacy delivered by such investment will benefit generations to come and be perceived as the visionary and socially impactful work that it is.”
The award follows on from a design and feasibility study carried out last year. This demonstrated support for linking villages in the fund area with each other.
The project has been commissioned by the Dorenell Wind Farm Community Fund decision-making panel which is made up of local volunteers.
A steering group, which includes panel members, local rangers and access officers has been set up to develop and manage the project.
The contract to develop the project is currently being advertised. Full details are available at www.foundationscotland.org.uk/about-us/our-news.
A number of other awards were made at the most recent funding round for Dorenell Wind Farm Community Fund, including £20,000 to Glenlivet Hall.
This was to purchase a ride-on mower to help maintain the grounds, and also to fund a feasibility study on options to upgrade the hall to improve energy efficiency and create a more sustainable and functional community space.
A total of £29,925 was awarded to Autism and Neurodiversity Scotland to support local families, an award of £2500 will contribute to the costs of resurfacing Rothes Tennis Club courts, and an award of £3930 will contribute to the Speyside Children’s Arts Festival in summer 2024.
EDF Renewables UK, Director of Asset Operations Piero Maggio said: “We are delighted to support a number of local causes of various sizes through the most recent round of funding from the wind farm.
"The Dorenell Community Links Paths project will make a big difference to the wider community, encouraging more people to get out and about into the countryside and enjoy their surroundings.”
Projects that benefit the communities of Dufftown, Auchindoun, Glenrinnes, Glenlivet, Inveravon or Cabrach can still apply for funding of up to £30,000 for projects and activities that are charitable in nature, community-led and that will benefit local residents.
Grant awards are recommended by a panel of representatives drawn from those communities.
The deadlines for the Dorenell Wind Farm Community Fund year ahead are March 31, July 31 and November 30.
Dorenell also provides funding for microgrant schemes which are run by each of the community associations involved in setting up and running the Fund: Cabrach Community Association; Dufftown & District Community Association; Glenlivet & Inveravon Community Association and Glenrinnes Community Centre.
These microgrants allow smaller groups to apply for up to £1,000 for events, activities, equipment and projects. More information is available from local community associations.
Full details on the Dorenell Wind Farm Community Fund are available at www.foundationscotland.org.uk/apply-for-funding/funding-available/dorenell
