Forum to focus on ways of growing the Black Isle

The next Black Isle Ward Forum takes place on Thursday (4 March) and under the heading of “Growing the Black Isle”, the main topic of discussion will focus around local allotment opportunities and community and farmer markets.

Guest speaker will be Douglas Watson the National Development Officer for Farmers’ Markets and joining him will be the Council’s policy officer on health improvement Keith Walker as well as representatives from the Black Isle Community Markets and Allotment Groups.

The Forum will be chaired by Cllr Isobel McCallum.  She said:  “The Scottish Farmers Market Partnership is a government supported project designed to promote, support and build capacity for farmers’ markets in Scotland.  I am delighted that Douglas Watson who has recently taken up his post is going to be able to join us to talk about the initiative and what support there is for us to develop this area of local business.   I’m sure people will also be interested in hearing more about allotments.  As a council we are committed to working with community groups to support them in setting up allotment sites where there is a demand.  Allotments sites which are well-used and effectively managed improve local biodiversity.  They can also be a good way of promoting social inclusion and the many health benefits associated with working physically outdoors.”

The Forum takes place at Culbokie Primary School from 6pm to 8pm and everyone is welcome to come along.