Praise for development trusts

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur took the opportunity of a members’ debate in the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday to highlight the success of development trusts in the islands.

While the debate focused on the work of development trusts in the Borders, Mr McArthur drew the parliament’s attention to the achievements of similar trusts on behalf of communities in Orkney.

Commenting afterwards, Mr McArthur said: “It was no surprise at all to hear the contribution being made by development trusts right across Scotland.

“I know from the experience in Orkney, the real value they have delivered for their communities through initiatives ranging from turbine developments to transport services.

“Every speaker in the debate acknowledged the selfless commitment put in by those involved in such trusts, and again this very much reflects what has happened in Orkney.

“Using and developing the skills of those in the community, these trusts have provided a real impetus for taking forward a very wide range of projects. Indeed, one of the most striking features over recent years is the ability of trusts to help build confidence and capacity within communities to take on roles and deliver services that otherwise would not have happened.

“Development trusts will continue to face challenges: encouraging new people to get involved is rarely straightforward and sometimes projects do not turn out as hoped. Nevertheless, they have been a force for good in Orkney, as elsewhere in Scotland, and hopefully that will remain the case in years to come.”