Exciting Developments in Badenoch and Strathspey: A Bright Future Ahead
The recent Scottish Budget presentation has unveiled a plethora of opportunities for Badenoch and Strathspey, promising significant advancements in infrastructure, support for rural communities, and enhanced digital connectivity. With these developments, residents have much to look forward to in the coming years.
Major Infrastructure Investments
One of the standout commitments is the dualling of the A9, a crucial project prioritized by the Scottish Government, which aims for completion by 2035. This investment not only addresses long-standing concerns among constituents regarding road safety and travel efficiency, but also underscores the Government's dedication to improving local transport infrastructure. A budget allocation of nearly £200 million for the entire dualling project, alongside ongoing improvements on key sections like Tomatin to Moy, illustrates a robust plan in place.
Support for Agriculture and Rural Communities
Another significant aspect of the budget is the provision of over £660 million dedicated to supporting farmers, crofters, land managers, and rural communities. This initiative encompasses £26 million specifically aimed at agricultural modernization, which is expected to positively impact the farming and food sectors in the region. Additionally, the support extended to the Crofting Agricultural Grant and Croft House Grant schemes is welcome news for the many crofters who contribute to the rural landscape.
Hospitality Business Reliefs
The budget also introduces essential relief measures for local businesses, particularly in the hospitality, retail, and leisure sectors. Increased property rate relief, now up to 40% for hospitality businesses for the next three years, and a 100% relief for certain rural areas signifies a proactive approach to bolstering local economies. With over 96% of relevant properties expected to benefit from reduced rates, this initiative aims to stimulate growth and support livelihoods in tourism-dependent areas.
A Commitment to Affordable Housing and Connectivity
In line with addressing child poverty, a record investment of £926 million has been earmarked to deliver 110,000 affordable homes by 2032. This bold step towards enhancing suitable accommodation for families reflects the urgency and commitment to improving living conditions across the region. Furthermore, substantial investments in digital connectivity will ensure that local communities have access to strong and reliable broadband, which is increasingly essential in today's world where remote work and study have become commonplace.
With these comprehensive initiatives laid out in the latest budget, Badenoch and Strathspey is poised for a future of growth and resilience, demonstrating a commendable commitment from government representatives towards improving the quality of life for its residents.
