LEADER funding for self catering projects

The EU Community Initiative awards funding to rural enterprise and farm diversification projects in eligible parts of Falkirk, East Dunbartonshire and North Lanarkshire.

Burnhead Bothy at Kilsyth was awarded £25,000 to help create a high quality, eco-friendly, self-catering holiday accommodation unit on a farm in the Kilsyth hills.

A holiday let bungalow at Binniemyre Farm, Banton, has been awarded £81,204. The development has been designed to accommodate guests with mobility problems and will feature a sensory garden.

At Keppochhill Curated Cottage in Banton, a £100,000 grant has contributed to the transformation of a dilapidated house into luxury accommodation.

In total the three properties will create 20 new bed spaces in North Lanarkshire.

Keppochhill owner Catherine Moneypenny said: “We are incredibly grateful for our LEADER funding without which the project wouldn’t be possible.

“It will enable us to provide 10 additional self-catering beds and will contribute to the vibrancy and sustainability of our village.

“Our focus on art and story will be a unique addition to Scotland’s tourist industry and even in these early stages, is helping to raise the profile of the talented local artists and creatives we are working with.

“We look forward to attracting guests from across the world to our welcoming village and this beautiful region.”

Applications for the programme from relevant projects are open until November 22, for more information call the Kelvin Valley and Falkirk LEADER Team on 01324 590712 or email [email protected], or call North Lanarkshire Council’s Enterprise Team on 01236 638945 or email [email protected].