190614CNPABdPaper5AALEADERInfoPaper

This document contains an update on the Cairngorms Local Action Group (CLAG) LEADER (Liaison Entre Actions de Développement de l'Économie Rurale) Programme, which supports rural development through community projects. The Cairngorms National Park Authority is asked to note the program's contribution to the National Park Partnership Plan and its successful management of LEADER funding. The LEADER Programme has been awarded just under £3 million in funding from the Scottish Government and the European Union. The CLAG operates as the Cairngorms Local Action Group Trust and is supported by the Cairngorms National Park Authority as the Accountable Body. The Board has endorsed the Local Development Strategy and business plan and agreed to act as the Accountable Body for the Cairngorms LEADER. The CLAG has fully committed the LEADER Programme Grant, allocating £2.969 million to projects with a total value of £3.773 million and the programme involves projects in 13 different communities. There are potential risks associated with the Authority's role as Accountable Body, including financial clawbacks and the UK's exit from the European Union. The Authority's support brings significant investment to communities and supports the objectives of the National Park Partnership and the Authority's Corporate Plan. The delivery of the LEADER Programme is monitored by the Cairngorms Trust Board, and the Authority's support will be assessed in terms of successful program delivery and investment.