Members of the Caithness Committee have unanimously agreed to adopt the Caithness Area Place Plan (APP).

The committee also committed to fully supporting and promoting the plan, ensuring it is considered within other relevant plans, strategies, developments, and funding opportunities impacting the Caithness area.

The Caithness APP is described as an ambitious yet realistic document that encapsulates the aspirations of local communities and focuses on delivering positive outcomes across the entire region. It is intended to inform decision-making at both local and regional levels concerning public services, budgeting, and policy areas, as well as influencing wider statutory plans. The plan acknowledges the valuable work already underway in Caithness and aims to empower community action to maximise local opportunities.

Councillor Jarvie, Chair of the Committee, emphasised the community-driven nature of the plan: "The Caithness APP is about communities, and their views, opinions and ideas are at the core of this plan. As well as in partnership with communities, the Caithness APP has been developed in partnership with various services and organisations."

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He also highlighted the value of the data collected: "The depth of the data at a community level we have captured is a fantastic starting point. It is a resource for everyone, from small groups to large organisations to show levels of need and demands. However, as Local Councillors, the next steps we take of how to put this into action, and make this plan a real plan that makes a difference on the ground, is the ultimate test."

The aspirations outlined in the plan are categorised under the headings of People, Place, and Prosperity. The Committee has also agreed on the subsequent steps required to progress the work detailed within the plan.

Councillor Jarvie expressed his gratitude to all those who contributed to the development of the APP: "I'd like to thank all the individuals, stakeholders and local community groups for coming along to the sessions we held and playing a proactive role. Their input into the process has been invaluable. I'd like to especially thank all the young people who provided feedback as it was important their voices were heard as part of the preparation work."

He further noted the insights gained during the consultation process: "Through our discussions, it became clear that many community priorities and aspirations reflect those which have been voiced for some time, but also that new upcoming ideas and opportunities were being identified."

Looking ahead, Councillor Jarvie explained the strategic importance of the APP: "Going forward our APP will help us and our communities secure funding for Caithness by evidencing the impact of every pound spent here. The associated actions will provide clarity and manage expectations around how and where resources are prioritised. It will also provide a stronger framework for communities to prepare more local plans, should they wish to, empowering them to drive and deliver change in our towns, villages, communities and settlements."