National Lottery funding has been secured for a £4.5 million heritage programme in the North Isles of Orkney.

The North Isles Landscape Scheme involves the enhancement, promotion, and protection of the built, natural and cultural heritage of Orkney's North Isles.

The project will cover 269 sq kms to the north of the mainland of Orkney, encompassing Rousay, Egilsay, Wyre, Shapinsay, Eday, Stronsay, Sanday, Westray, Papa Westray, North Ronaldsay, Gairsay and Auskerry as well as 11 uninhabited islands.

The Heritage Lottery Fund has now confirmed it will support the scheme with a £2.8m investment, following submission of the council's final project proposal. Additional funding will come from Orkney Islands Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Historic Environment Scotland, RSPB Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage and in-kind contributions from North Isles community groups.

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Cllr Graham Sinclair said: "This is great news for the North Isles. As well as supporting jobs, the scheme will raise the profile of the North Isles and its diverse landscapes and communities.

"Through the delivery of a number of projects the scheme will raise awareness of, conserve and enhance our islands' distinct identities. The aspiration is to make heritage more accessible, encouraging the involvement of young people and the sharing of heritage between generations.

"Months of work has gone into securing this funding, including a huge amount of support and commitment from isles residents and partner agencies. I congratulate the project team and residents on their success and look forward to the project getting underway and seeing the positive impact it will have on our island communities."

Lucy Casot, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in Scotland, said: "Scotland has the most outstanding natural heritage and nowhere is that more evident than the astounding scenery of the North Isles. However, the enormous pressures upon these landscapes mean that we have to tackle their restoration and conservation on a bigger scale than ever before.

"Thanks to players of The National Lottery we can help bring real cohesion to the natural and built heritage of the region while reconnecting its communities with the natural environment that lies on their doorstep."

(LM)