Following a community consultation process, the project aims to make the hall a more welcoming and accessible community space by improving the front and rear of the building, introducing insulation and redesigning the access arrangements.

Chair of the Sutherland County Committee, Councillor Richard Gale, said: “I am pleased that Community Regeneration Funding continues to support key projects for our communities such as this one which reflects the priorities of local people. This investment will ensure Skerray Village Hall is fit for purpose for many years to come and continues to be an important facility for this rural community.

“Village halls are vital hubs for bringing people together, especially for remote populations, and I look forward to seeing more people making use of the hall as these welcome improvements support community needs now and in the future.”

Community Regeneration Funding (CRF) is an umbrella term used to cover multiple community-led external funding programmes, administered by the Highland Council.  This includes the Highland Coastal Communities Fund, Place-Based Investment Programme and the Community Led Local Development Fund.

Dornoch community centre

Meanwhile, members of the Sutherland County Committee have recommended that the Full Council approves an application for £280,000 of funding from the Dornoch Common Good Fund towards the development of a new community centre in Dornoch.

The application was submitted by the Dornoch and District Community Association (DADCA), which serves the local community by supporting social, cultural and recreational activities and has been recommended for approval subject to match funding and required permissions being in place. The application will be considered at the next meeting of Full Council on Thursday 11 December 2025.

Chair of the Sutherland County Committee, Councillor Richard Gale, said: “I’m delighted that Members have recommended this application for approval in support of a new community centre which will bring significant benefits to the people of Dornoch including a fully accessible space for all ages, a sustainable building, and flexible, modern spaces that will help bring the community together.

“For many years, DADCA has consulted with the community and explored plans for a new community centre that could replace the existing 180-year-old social club building which has served as a town hall for the last 13 years. Local support for the project has been strong, and I am pleased that we may have the opportunity to contribute towards the development of a purpose-built facility that will mean so much to the community.”

The Dornoch Common Good Fund is managed for the benefit of the residents of the former Royal Burgh. When funds permit, this includes providing funding to support projects and initiatives that deliver clear benefits to the residents of Dornoch including a wide range of community activities.