Funding for green recovery project on Shapinsay

The funding will help Shapinsay Development Trust (SDT) to implement decarbonisation measures as part of its wider project to refurbish two community-owned properties – the Old School House and no.9 Balfour Village.

SDT purchased the houses last year with support from the Scottish Land Fund with a view to provide two affordable homes for families to rent. The project will also support one of SDT’s key aims which is to increase the number of children attending the local school.

The latest award is being funded through the Island Green Recovery Programme (IGRP), which is a £2m Scottish Government fund, delivered by HIE in partnership with Energy Savings Trust, Zero Waste Scotland and Inspiring Scotland. It aims to support locally led green projects designed to help support the island’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

A £709k element is administered by HIE to support green economic recovery across the region’s island communities. It has been awarded to emerging projects that will contribute to the transition to a carbon neutral region.

The decarbonisation measures being implement at the two properties include replacing heating systems, installing double glazed doors and windows and insulation, which will contribute towards minimising the island’s carbon footprint and lower heating bills for the occupants.

Francesca Couperwhite, head of strengthening communities in Orkney, said: “We are very pleased to be able to provide assistance towards this important project, which will support the island’s ambition towards a greener economy. Providing affordable housing is a key step in providing family accommodation on Shapinsay and we are delighted to support SDT with this project, which both enhances sustainability and contributes to the island’s low carbon ambitions.

Davie Campbell from the SDT, said: “We are delighted to receive this award to help provide high quality, energy efficient measures for our affordable social housing for the people of Shapinsay. We look forward to the project being completed in the coming weeks/months and to welcoming new families into our properties.