The most recent work of the team has been preparing for and promoting this year’s first round of Community Regeneration Funding for revenue projects. 105 eligible expressions of interest have been received by the deadline, demonstrating yet again, the demand for these funds and how robust Highland communities are in seeking funds to deliver projects locally.

Chair of the council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans has praised the team after they were short-listed under the Resilient and Sustainable Communities category of the Council’s Staff Recognition Awards.

He said: “Highland has a long and positive record of its communities helping themselves to improve their quality of life and wellbeing. To facilitate and support this our Community Regeneration Team designed and introduced a new community engagement online platform and a streamlined application process. This has assisted community groups to access the multi-funded programme with one application.

“The team of staff have done a great job in using their experience and expertise and demonstrating their commitment to communities.”

He added: “This innovative approach has been widely welcomed by communities and has been quoted as best practice by the Scottish Government. I would like to thank all the staff involved for their hard work.”

The Highland Council Staff Recognition Awards received Sponsorship and support from Story Contracting, Technology One, Wipro, E J Parker Technical Services, Sustrans and J. Thomson Printers.