Orkney Local Action Group appoints a new chair

Orkney Local Action Group (LAG), which brings together representatives from Orkney’s public, private and voluntary sectors, has appointed a new Chair. 

Amy Esslemont takes on the role with experience in development, she currently is the head of enterprise support for Highlands and Islands Enterprise and has extensive experience in local and community funding. 

Orkney LAG administers both the Community Led Local Development (CLLD) Grant, funded annually by the Scottish Government, and the OIC Crown Estate Community Led Development Fund (OIC CECLDF). Together, these programmes are guided by the LAG’s strategic direction to ensure that local delivery aligns with the Scottish Government’s priority areas. 

 In the 2025/26 financial year, Orkney received a total allocation of £299,607.51 - comprising £100,000 for revenue projects and £199,607.51 for capital activity. 

Projects supported in recent years have ranged from improving community facilities and supporting local skills to feasibility studies, local place plans - reflecting the breadth of ideas coming forward from communities across Orkney. A full list of the Orkney CLLD projects from 2024/25 is available to view on Orkney Islands Council’s CLLD webpage.

Amy Esslemont, Chair of the Orkney Local Action Group, said: 

“I am delighted to have been appointed as Chair of the Orkney Local Action Group. Having seen first-hand the positive impact the LAG has had, I feel privileged to help continue this important work. I look forward to working with partners to ensure we continue to deliver significant benefits for our communities.” 

Councillor Kristopher Leask, Chair of Enterprise and Infrastructure, said: 

“Our CLLD and CECLDF funds exist to support community-led solutions, and I look forward to working with Amy and the LAG to deliver that. I encourage residents and organisations to come forward with bold, locally driven proposals that will deliver real benefits across our islands.” 

The next round of CLLD funding is expected to open in spring, pending confirmation of allocations from the Scottish Government. Orkney LAG anticipates accepting expressions of interest between late March and early April. 

Further information about the CLLD grant is available here, and information for the CECLDF funding is available here. 

 If you would like to discuss a community idea you are developing, please contact the team at CLLD@orkney.gov.uk.