New Caithness plan sets out aspirations of communities across county
Caithness councillors have agreed to adopt the Caithness Area Place Plan and give it due consideration along with other relevant strategies impacting the county.
Highland Council describes the Area Place Plan (APP) as “ambitious but realistic” as it covers the aspirations of communities and focuses on outcomes for the wider area.
The new plan outlines a range of data about Caithness and its residents, and includes information from public events, forums and other feedback including what people want to see developed in future.
It will help inform local and regional decision-making about public services, budgeting and policy areas, as well as informing wider statutory plans. The councils says it recognises the good work already taking place in Caithness and supports community action to make the most of opportunities.
The full report can be read here.
Councillor Andrew Jarvie, joint chairman of the Caithness committee, said: “The Caithness APP is about communities – and their views, opinions and ideas are at the core of this plan. As well as in partnership with communities, the Caithness APP has been developed in partnership with various services and organisations.
“The depth of the data at a community level we have captured is a fantastic starting point. It is a resource for everyone, from small groups to large organisations to show levels of need and demands. However as local councillors, the next steps we take of how to put this into action, and make this plan a real plan that makes a difference on the ground, is the ultimate test.”
The aspirations have been categorised under the headings of People, Place and Prosperity.
The committee has now agreed the next steps for progressing the work set out in the plan.
Councillor Jarvie added: “I’d like to thank all the individuals, stakeholders and local community groups for coming along to the sessions we held and playing a proactive role. Their input into the process has been invaluable.
“I’d like to especially thank all the young people who provided feedback as it was important their voices were heard as part of the preparation work.
“Through our discussions, it became clear that many community priorities and aspirations reflect those which have been voiced for some time, but also that new upcoming ideas and opportunities were being identified.
“Going forward our APP will help us and our communities secure funding for Caithness by evidencing the impact of every pound spent here. The associated actions will provide clarity and manage expectations around how and where resources are prioritised.
“It will also provide a stronger framework for communities to prepare more local plans, should they wish to, empowering them to drive and deliver change in our towns, villages, communities and settlements.”