THE HEROIC work to revive and reimagine Scotland’s communities in the face of unprecedented challenges is being recognised by special awards.
Nominations have opened for the 2023 Scotland Loves Local Awards – with people urged to come forward to highlight the work of their community champions.
There are opportunities to recognise efforts to tackle the climate emergency, responding to the cost of living crisis and continued recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.
Organised by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP), the Scotland Loves Local Awards celebrate all that’s great about the nation’s towns and neighbourhoods and the work to ensure they become stronger and more sustainable.
They will highlight enterprise, creativity and digital innovation shaping a stronger future for towns, villages and neighbourhoods, as well as the inspirational people who make this possible.
Kimberley Guthrie, STP’s Interim Chief Officer, said: “In so many ways, the challenges facing our communities have never been greater as we face up to the climate emergency, cost of living and the legacy of coronavirus.
“But, in so many ways, this has brought out the best in our people and places – unleashing a desire to make a difference, to create a new future. Across the country, we are seeing how that can create better, fairer, more attractive and successful places in which to live and work.
“The Scotland Loves Local Awards are a chance to shine a spotlight on all of this and so much more. To do that, we need you to tell us about the inspiring people and projects whose dedication and innovation is making a real difference where you live.”
The award categories are:
High Street Hero (an individual or organisation making an exceptional difference in their community)
Place Leader Award
Climate and Netzero
Creative Town
Streets and Spaces
Digital Town
Town Centre Living
Enterprising Communities
Spearheaded by STP and supported by the Scottish Government, Scotland Loves Local is the movement encouraging people to create a better future for their community by choosing local. This is the third year in which the awards have been held.
Among the 2022 recipients was shopkeeper Marion Gilliland, who was named High Street Hero for the amazing lengths to which she has gone to support the community in Cumnock, East Ayrshire. The community vision and action behind the remarkable transformation of Montrose Playhouse in Angus was also recognised.
Nominations can be made at www.lovelocal.scot/awards, where full category criteria can also be found. There, you can briefly share the details of your nominee and why you would like to see them recognised.
The closing date for nominations is 5pm on Monday, September 4th 2023. Winners will be announced at a celebration being held in November.
