Scottish Government

Tackle the challenges of the Highlands and Islands Fragile Areas programme and realise the potential of the Islands.

NPF2 Paragraph Reference

219, 222, 223, Annex - National development 11

Contribution to NPF Strategy

• Supports sustainable growth in the rural economy.
• Conserves and enhance Scotland's distinctive natural and cultural heritage.
• Expands opportunities for communities and businesses by promoting environmental quality and good connectivity.

2009 onwards - Co-ordinated action focused on diversifying and growing the economy. Reflect Highland and Island's fragile areas programme in the preparation of development plans and associated action programmes, partners' plans and programmes and development management decisions.

Lead Partner(s)/Delivery Bodies

HIE has established Community Account Management, initially with 18 communities, expanding to 42 by 2012. HIE is working with whole communities through an anchor organisation, and with other public agencies, to develop and implement community growth plans.

Since June 2009 HIE has invested £2.5m in projects in fragile areas, including support business expansion and the establishment and growth of social enterprises. This investment has levered over £14.6m from other sources, including £3.3m from the National Lottery Growing Community Assets fund and £6.6m from private sources.

2010 onwards - Through its Growth at the Edge approach HIE will use the full breadth of its powers in concert to deliver growth in the most fragile parts of the country. Working closely with public sector partners HIE will support communities to produce and implement development plans that will increase prosperity levels and quality of life in these most challenging areas.