Upper Braes Communities Set to Thrive with Expanded Community Development Support
Funding from the EDF Renewables Burnhead Moss Wind Farm Community Fund helps to expand successful community development initiatives across the Upper Braes area.
Three years ago in Limerigg and Slamannan, a Community Development Officer role was created with funding from the EDF Renewables Burnhead Moss Wind Farm Community Fund. The role was created to support the development of a local community action plan and to build community group capacity to develop and implement new and existing projects in the area.
Three years – and some inspiring work – later, the Community Development Officer initiative is now expanding.
Having witnessed the achievements in their neighbouring villages, residents in Avonbridge and Standburn expressed strong support for a similar approach. Under the ‘Upper Braes Community Development Programme 2025-2027’, and with continued funding from the Burnhead Moss Community Fund, Avonbridge and Standburn will now also have a Community Development Officer, with priorities including project planning assistance, support for developing flagship community initiatives, and refreshing the area’s Community Action Plan.
The Burnhead Moss Community Fund will finance the expanded Community Development Officer programme for the next two years, with an award of £73,435.
This funding represents a significant investment in rural community development in the Falkirk Council area. It will support Community Development Officers working an average of 2.5 days per week in Limerigg and Slamannan and 1.5 days per week in Avonbridge and Standburn. These complementary roles will target the specific needs of each community while fostering greater collaboration across the Upper Braes area.
CVS Falkirk and District will continue to host the Community Development Officer roles and lead the project on the ground, sharing their expertise in supporting local third-sector groups across Falkirk.
Malcolm Jack, Community Funds Manager at Foundation Scotland said:
“The impact of the original Community Development Officer role in Limerigg and Slamannan has been remarkable. From revitalising community action plans to already supporting more than ten grassroots groups and enabling major projects, we’ve seen how this role can make a huge and positive difference in community life.”
The Burnhead Moss Community Fund has also been a key source of funding support for some of the community initiatives which have emerged and grown in Limerigg and Slamannan over the last three years.
Successful projects include the transformation of Limerigg Park, which has become a vibrant play area with improved recreational space available to all of the community. The £40,000 contributed from the Burnhead Moss Wind Farm Fund also leveraged matching support from Falkirk Council to help complete the project.
Another success was the establishment of Martha’s Pantry in Slamannan, a community-led initiative that is tackling local food poverty and now serving over a hundred households weekly. Both projects received crucial guidance from the Community Development Officer.
Community consultation has been central to shaping this next phase. Surveys conducted by Foundation Scotland with community groups in March 2025 revealed universal appreciation for the work of Gail McLinton, Community Development Officer in Limerigg and Slamannan over the past three years, alongside clear priorities for ongoing support. These include developing fundraising skills, supporting flagship projects, and assisting groups considering community asset transfers.
Abdirahman Abdirahman, EDF Renewables UK’s Asset Manager for Burnhead Moss Wind Farm commented:
“We're delighted that the EDF Renewables Burnhead Moss Wind Farm Community Fund continues to fuel positive change in these communities. The expansion of the Community Development Programme demonstrates our long-term commitment to supporting local aspirations and it’s fantastic to see the positive impact the funds from the wind farm continue to make locally.”
The expanded programme aims to make a lasting difference to the lives of the 2,900 people who live throughout the Upper Braes area, be it through enhancing community services, improving facilities, promoting greater community spirit and cohesion, or encouraging volunteering.
Residents, community groups or local charities who would like to get involved with the Upper Braes Community Development Programme should contact CVS Falkirk & District at info@cvsfalkirk.org.uk or call 01324 692000.
Read more about the EDF Renewables Burnhead Moss Wind Farm Community Fund (Limerigg and Slamannan).