Council target investment to aid COVID-19 recovery across South Ayrshire

This week the council's Leadership Panel approved a programme of activity which will support South Ayrshire communities to recover from COVID-19 and provide a boost to the local economy.

Councillors ear-marked an initial allocation of £5.852 million to support and develop activities and projects which will make a real difference to our communities.

These include initiatives  which will help us to close the gap, such as activities to promote and improve digital inclusion in South Ayrshire; to support employability; increase employment opportunities for local people; and to provide targeted financial support for those most affected by the impact of COVID-19.

Local businesses and town centres will also benefit, with the extension of programmes such as the shopfront improvement scheme.

The investment will also allow us to work with communities to improve and enhance their local areas and environment, making South Ayrshire a better place to live.

The health and wellbeing of our young people is a priority, and we will also invest in increased sport and physical activities and outdoor learning.

Councillor Peter Henderson, Leader of South Ayrshire Council said - "The social and economic impact of COVID-19 can't be underestimated. I'm therefore delighted that we are able to invest to such a degree in our communities as we emerge from the pandemic. Everyone will benefit from this investment in our local economy, our environment and our collective health and wellbeing, fulfilling our commitment to ensuring local people can grow well, live well and age well.

"We have also targeted projects and activities to areas where they will have the greatest impact, helping us to close the poverty gap in some of our most deprived areas and making a huge difference to those who need our support."

Councillor Brian McGinley, Depute Leader of South Ayrshire Council said - "It has been a real inspiration to see communities and council staff go above and beyond to support residents through this pandemic.

By strategically targeting this resource, we can continue to work with communities to make a positive difference and bring hope for a brighter future."

Published 17 June 2021