New programme to support rural communities in Lanarkshire launched

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A new Scottish Government programme aimed to empower rural communities will be launched in South Lanarkshire.The new initiative will replace a previous programme which was funded by the European Union.

The programme will draw on the successes of the past initiative.The LEADER programme, which has operated across Lanarkshire for the past six years has received widespread approval and success, it was aimed at engaging resources, local knowledge and expertise of people and organisations in rural areas to help with future developments.The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now.

Get all the news from your area – as well as features, entertainment, sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips, 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories, and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you.Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android In May this year, the Scottish Government announced that the LEADER programme would be replaced with the Community-Led Local Development (CLLD) which aims to develop the capacity and structures of the current Local Action Groups.Options for funding through the new CLLD will be made through consultation and the decisions will be made by Local Action Group Members.Councillor Robert Brown, chairman of community and enterprise resources, said: “The administration is determined to continue the tremendous success generated by the LEADER programme, something that the Lanarkshire Local Action Group has been key to.“The unique partnership of public, private and third sector representatives has brought a great range of knowledge and expertise into