Why have Kingussie's hydro grant applications dried up?
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Just as Kingussie blesses the rain and the power it gives the town through its Gynack hydro plant, it is witnessing a drought in grant applications from groups in the Badenoch capital.
Kingussie Community Development Company (KCDC)spokesman Len Cruickshank told the Strathy: “Basically, we haven’t had many applications to the Hydro Fund recently.
“Really we need to try and jog local groups into action.”
The fast-flowing current of the River Gynack has been harnessed by the KCDC which sells power both to the golf club and National Grid.
The money it generates leaves the Badenoch plant totally self-sufficient with enough funds left over to assist with support for local development projects.
Over the past three years, money earned through the generation of electricity at Strathlynn has been distributed to many causes in the area.
Mr Cruickshank said: “To date a figure of over £28000 has been awarded to major projects such as assisting with upgrades at the Dell and replacing the footbridge at the golf club, as with to smaller causes such as helping the local gymnastics club and Hogmanay fireworks,” he said.
“However, although the turbine continues to turn and generate income, applications to the Hydro Fund seemed to have dried up.”
Organisations within PH21 postcode can apply for funding up to a maximum of £2500 at this time.
Smaller grants up to £500 are awarded by KCDC directors at their regular meetings, but applications for larger amounts are passed to an independent group for decision.
These applications require more detail of how the money is to be spent, including more than one quote for works if possible.
Application forms, information and guidelines can be found on the recently upgraded KCDC website kcdc.co.uk
