Durness Development Group

How We Started

Durness Development Group was formed for the benefit the 350 strong community of Durness. It has delivered a number of community-based archaeology and arts projects.

What We Do

DDG has employed two part-time Local Development Officers who, having consulted with the community regarding development priorities in 2010, have produced a comprehensive development plan for the area.

In addition to the Group’s community development planning and project development activity, DDG’s core activities include employing 2 part-time youth workers (Lloyds TSB funding) and managing the community house – a former nurse’s house in the village which it purchased. The building provides 3 offices and community internet access as well as a youth café facility, which is currently about to undergo a major refurbishment, which will provide facilities for ICT and other identified training needs.

DDG has registered an interest in acquiring Northern Lighthouse Board land at Cape Wrath and the local Tourist Information Centre, and has commissioned contractors to investigate hydro (initial feasibility stage positive) and wind renewable projects.
 

Recently a Bike Hire Project has commenced (with support from Cycle Scotland) which will provide further employment and training.

Our Future Plans

Having been funded largely to date by project/initiative-based grants, DDG currently receives modest rental income from offices in its community building. It is however looking to renewable energy projects for its longer-term financial sustainability