Argyll and Bute Community Development Team Update

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Community Development Update
Helensburgh & Lomond Area Community Planning Group 
Over the last month the CLD team has been assessing applications for the Supporting Communities
Fund in preparation for the September local area committees. A total of 22 groups applied within
the H&L area for amounts up to £1500.  All groups, regardless of decisions, will be offered ongoing
support to develop their organisation.
The Community Development Team will also continue to support local recovery communities. From
the 1st of August the CD team will work across A&B to strengthen networks which offer assistance
and recovery opportunities, for people who have experienced addiction. This is part of the Recovery
Orientated Systems of Care (ROSC) approach promoted by the ADP - which builds on existing
community provision by collectively identifying gaps and addressing these.  
The Princess Louise Hall Charity continue to meet with the CD Team, Property and Estates prior to
signing the lease to the hall. They shall independently undertake a schedule of external and internal
remedial works. The group are being supported through this process and are currently exploring
additional funds to complete the renovation of the two adjoining buildings. This will be staged over a
3-5 year period – with the Howie Pavilion anticipated to be back into community use for smaller
events by early summer 2026. 
The Kirkmichael Community Development Group – have acquired a demolition survey through
Comm. Dev and Property for the removal of a derelict portakabin beside the playpark. The group is
awaiting the decision of their SCF grant before proceeding with its removal. A short term goal is to
replace this with a smaller- vandal-proof unit, allowing for a base when holding community events in
the playpark. The group wish to invite new members to its committee to help with future funding
plans and applications.  
Met with Welcome In recovery group who are having a soft relaunch of their group on Thursday
4thSeptember. The group will offer HWB support for people in active recovery. The relaunch will
focus more on activities, and a simpler lunch, as this previously took much of the capacity of a
smaller voluntary organisation.  CDO exploring learning opportunities for the group who identified
group cookery as a potential activity. 
CDO helped organise a focus group with the Friends of Hermitage Park on Saturday 16th August to
increase membership of the group and to gather views of young people and children. Activities
included a bug hunt, family arts, and guided tours of the park facilitated by the group.   
Recently visited the following community groups to provide advice on funding and governance
Barreman Bowling Club, Cove Community Council, gardening group at Craigrownie Park, and C&K
Bowling Club.
Upcoming meeting of the CLD partnership between 3 workers in A&B council, Live Argyll and TSI
early September, to review partnership approaches and best use of resources working with
community organisations in the local area.