Community support and development
Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust (KoSDT) was set up in 2011 to cover the districts of Ardgay and Creich. The objective of the Trust is to ensure that long-term, sustainable economic benefits are achieved throughout the area. The Trust aims to fully utilise the funding available from local wind farms and renewable energy projects and also works to secure match funding from other sources.
At the heart of the community
The Trust area covers 680 square miles, with a population of 1,700. Over 60% of households in the area have been identified as being fuel poor and / or living in poverty. KoSDT strives to increase the economic and social health of the community to ensure that the area has increased resilience in the future.
An enterprising initiative
In 2017, the Trust successfully applied for funding from Energy Saving Trust for a charge point located at the Falls of Shin visitor attraction. The development was designed with sustainability in mind, so having a charge point on site was a perfect fit. A semi-rapid charge point was selected to encourage customers to stay on site for slightly longer. This means that, while charging their car, visitors can enjoy a meal at the restaurant, have fun in the playpark, go for a forest walk, or visit the salmon viewing platform.
The charge point has also helped to expand the charge point network in the Highlands, reducing the risk of people travelling to remote locations and being unable to charge.
“Charge points have the ability to connect a local area with its residents. Strategically positioning charge points near a community asset encourages the local community and tourists to use them.”
Beth Simco, contracts officer
KoSDT accessed business charge point grant funding from Energy Saving Trust to help with the cost of installation. Funding support for tourism businesses may also be available in 2020-21.
Get in touch
For more information call 0800 0931 669.