Highland 2007 Legacy Programme is Launched

1st July 2008

The Highland Council has launched the Highland 2007 Legacy Programme, providing an annual fund of £500,000 in grants to build upon the success of Highland 2007. The programme aims to enhance and to promote the events, festivals and cultural programme of the Highlands. Community organisations, promoters, artists, performers, youth groups and schools are now being encouraged to create their own legacy of Highland 2007 and to submit their applications. The deadline for the first tranche of applications is Friday 22 August. The deadline for the next tranche is 6 February 2009.

At a recent meeting of The Highland Council's Education, Culture and Sport Committee, members agreed the criteria for grant applications. Given the national significance of Homecoming Scotland 2009 and the opportunities that exist for the Highlands in participating in this Scotland wide programme, it was decided that the 2008/09 Highland 2007 Legacy funding will be prioritised in support of events or projects that that can contribute to this national celebration.

Councillor Bill Fernie, chairman of the Education Culture And Sport committee, said, "I hope that a wide variety of organisations across Highland will apply for funding and that many events will happen that might no otherwise have taken place or will be on a larger scale than might otherwise be possible. We were determined that the benefits of Highland 2007 that helped deliver a huge range of arts projects should not be lost. By organising a continuation of funding I hope we will see many very local projects delivered in our communities."

Councillor Sandy Park, Convener of The Highland Council, said: "Highland 2007 was unique to the Highlands and Islands of Scotland when event organisers across the region produced a truly diverse programme of over 600 events which showcased the culture of our region in all of its traditional and contemporary glory. From the outset of the planning process we were determined that the year long celebrations would pave the way for a long term legacy which would build upon the momentum generated by Highland 2007. The launch of this funding programme is further progress towards that aim and will provide a fantastic opportunity for us to enhance and to showcase the diverse and vibrant cultural programme the Highlands has to offer locals and visitors alike.

"By prioritising the first year of the Legacy Programme criteria to tie-in with plans for Homecoming Scotland in 2009 we are ensuring that the Highlands can contribute significantly to the programming of the national celebrations and that the region occupies a central position in VisitScotland's national marketing campaign. As demand for funding is expected to be high, I would encourage anyone interested to submit their application as soon as possible and to help us to make the legacy of Highland 2007 as successful as the year itself."

Highland 2007 Legacy Programme guidelines and applications can be downloaded from
www.highland2007.com