Statistics show Merkinch as the most socially and economically deprived area of Inverness and the city-region, but its community feels a strong sense of place, is proud of its heritage and is determined to work together to take a lead in creating new opportunities.

 

The introduction of several steps towards community action projects include positive results from the Merkinch Project Officer, now in his second and final year; the announcement of Community Regeneration Funds to replace Social Inclusion Partnership funding; a community appraisal to identify local opinions and aspirations; a community conference ‘Merkinch Moving Forward’ which, in November 2004, established the community’s priorities and ideas for development; the appointment of a new Community Learning and Development Officer for the area; and a further community seminar in March 2005 to discuss formation of a new Merkinch partnership to steer future community regeneration activity.

Five community initiatives will receive grant support in 2005-06 – a Merkinch Partnership Officer for one year to assist establishing the new Merkinch Partnership; help for Merkinch Development Ventures, which has begun manufacturing natural soaps, to trade as Ness Soaps; extension of the post of arts officer to plan, for 2006, a week-long Arts in Merkinch festival first staged in May 2005; fund a feasibility study and business plan for a new building for the South Kessock Environmental Company, a community visitor centre established at the Old Ferry Terminal in April 2005; and the Inverness High School REAL project, which involves initiatives in developing enterprise and creativity, healthy living, IT skills and community engagement.