The expansion of a popular farm deli and café enterprise, leading to the creation of new jobs and improved educational facilities, is among the 450 projects to be funded in the third round of the Rural Priorities scheme. Richard Lochhead, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment, today announced the distribution of £28.78 million, praising rural businesses for their innovative thinking and positive approach. Mr Lochhead said: “Creating strong, resilient and supportive communities is a key priority for this administration. We recognise the strengths of rural communities, the value of our countryside and the rural traditions which make Scotland the country that it is. Scotland is already feeling the effects of the turbulence affecting major economies and global markets. As a Government, we are determined to take action to promote economic resilience and recovery. We have identified the action we can take within our current responsibilities to support small business and ordinary households to maximise jobs and investment and ensure our economy is well positioned for recovery. Rural Priorities is a huge part of that. We are also re-appraising the £1.6 billion Scotland Rural Development Programme, of which Rural Priorities is part, to ensure it is providing the best possible support for the rural economy.”

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29 December 2008
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