Dornoch Community Hub Funding Secured with £280,000 Grant

Plans for a new community hub in Dornoch gained significant momentum as local councillors approved a crucial funding bid from the Dornoch and District Community Association (DADCA). The Sutherland County Committee voted to recommend that Highland Council allocate £280,000 from the Dornoch Common Good Fund towards the ambitious £1.7 million project.

This development represents a pivotal moment for DADCA, which has aimed to replace the outdated 19th-century social club that has long served as the primary venue for community events. Previous public engagement has consistently highlighted residents’ desire for a modern and accessible facility that can accommodate a broader range of social, cultural, and recreational activities.

According to a report presented to the councillors, DADCA’s proposal envisions a flexible, energy-efficient, and financially sustainable community centre designed to meet Dornoch’s evolving needs. A feasibility study completed earlier this year indicated that a new building would provide enhanced spaces for various events, local groups, youth activities, classes, meetings, and indoor gatherings, which are currently limited by the existing hall’s constraints.

Councillors learned that the Common Good Fund currently holds £318,520 in usable reserves, sufficient to cover the proposed grant. However, approving this funding would reduce the balance to just over £38,000. Officers noted that these reserves have been intentionally accumulated over several years in anticipation of a significant community infrastructure request like this one. While the funding is deemed manageable, the committee was advised that future spending from the Common Good Fund may need to be restricted until reserves are replenished. A proposed adjustment in the 2025/26 budget is expected to increase the reserve to £54,055 by March next year.

The report also highlighted potential risks, including DADCA’s need to secure matching funds and obtain the necessary planning permissions before any award is finalised. While project costs could increase, the council’s contribution is capped at £280,000. Discussions around operational costs revealed that the feasibility study indicates the new centre should become self-financing after its first year of operation.

This project coincides with emerging local infrastructure ambitions, as the Dornoch Area Community Interest Company is exploring plans for a separate sports and recreation facility. Council officers stated that any overlaps would be managed through close collaboration with the community to establish a phased development timeline.

An Integrated Impact Assessment concluded that the community hub proposal would positively affect equality, socio-economic wellbeing, and climate goals, with no negative impacts identified. The committee’s recommendation will now advance to the full council for final approval. If confirmed, this funding will bring Dornoch closer to establishing a modern hub that promises to serve residents for generations to come.