Money for Moray voting events.

The outstanding success of Moray’s new participatory budgeting project – Money for Moray – means that two public voting events will be required.

Initially it had been intended to run a single day-long session at which people could vote for which projects they would like to see benefit from funding.

However, in view of the volume of applications, it has been decided to hold two events, both at the Grant Hall in Rothes.

The first will take place on Saturday, May 28 from 10am until 3pm and the second on Sunday, June 26 from 2pm until 6pm.

In total 83 applications with a total value of over £317,600 were submitted for the £60,000 of funding made available by the Scottish Government.

Approximately 20 of those applications were rejected because they did not meet the necessary criteria.

On each of the two days around 30 community groups will outline their projects in a two-minute Dragon’s Den style presentation.

The initial intention had been for Moray Council to match the Scottish Government funding with a further £60,000 from its economic development budget in the autumn.

However, in light of the response from community groups and to give community projects a greater chance of success, it has been decided to bring forward the council funding to boost the funding pot to £120,000.

Those attending the events will be required to remain for the duration to ensure an equitable voting system and to give each group an equal opportunity. Members of the public can vote if they are aged 14 or over and live in Moray.

Transport has been arranged for anyone in need of help in getting to the events and bookings should be made by calling Anita Milne at Lhanbryde Community Centre on 01343 843025.

The closing date for transport booking for the May event is Sunday, May 22 and for the June event it is Friday, June 17.

Anyone seeking further information can contact Anita on 01343 843025, Hugh on 01340 871600, Alastair on 01343 547352, Christine on 01542 831280, Ann on 01542 834085, Les on 01309 676716 or Linda on 01542 850383 or e-mail csu@moray.gov.uk