What’s Next for Stromness?

Local Place Plan

10 October 2019

IMAGE: Cover photograph showing Stromness from above, with the town and harbour in the foreground, islands and hills across the water, and the “What’s Next for Stromness?” logo dated 10 October 2019. Logos for Orkney Islands Council, PAS, Stromness Community Development Trust and Sustrans appear along the bottom.

Contents

• Executive Summary — p5
• Acronym List — p7
• 1. Introduction — p9
• 2. Stromness in context — p11
• 3. Engagement approach — p13
• 4. Strategic vision and action plan — p17
• 5. Detailed project proposals — p27
• 6. Development principles — p63
• 7. Next steps — p65

Executive Summary

Executive summary

What’s next for Stromness Local Place Plan is the result of a series of conversations with the people of Stromness, Orkney, that took place during Spring 2019.

It is an initiative developed in partnership with Stromness Community Development Trust, Stromness Community Council and Orkney Islands Council (OIC). Funding support was provided by Sustrans. PAS, a social enterprise and charity, was appointed as independent community engagement facilitators to prepare the plan. The Local Place Plan considers how Stromness should develop in the next 10 years, building on the regeneration and investment in Stromness over the last decade and more.

This process has enabled the development of suggestions raised by the community for the future of their town, and the start of a dialogue between all community partners and OIC. The strategic vision in chapter 4 shows the local community’s key areas and priorities for future change.

The plan is intended to positively influence the future sustainable development of Stromness for the benefit of the entire community. It contains a workable action plan to address community needs comprehensively. It aims to make Stromness an accessible, active and sustainable place to live, work, learn, visit and play.

The plan also provides a series of community-based principles to guide all existing and future development and projects in Stromness. The plan as a whole is intended to be a ‘Local Place Plan’ as promoted in the Planning (Scotland) Act 2019.

For the avoidance of doubt, the plans, diagrams and visualisations contained within this document are for illustrative purposes only. It will be necessary for further detailed technical analysis and community consultation to be progressed through formal development brief and planning application processes to define the final form and nature of development which will be permitted.

This is an initiative by:

IMAGE: Logos for Orkney Islands Council, PAS, Stromness Community Development Trust and Sustrans.

The format of this report is presented below:

• After assessing the local context, its challenges and opportunities in chapter 2, chapter 3 describes how the plan was co-produced with the local community in Stromness.
• Chapter 4 contains the vision with five themes, and an action plan including 18 projects.
• Chapter 5 provides more detailed information on the projects, including a time frame, delivery partners and illustrative proposals where appropriate.
• Chapter 6 sets out principles to guide future and existing development in Stromness.
• Chapter 7 suggests the next steps to deliver this plan.

IMAGE: Photograph showing Stromness piers, historic stone buildings and the harbour from Stromness Museum. Caption: View of piers from Stromness Museum.

IMAGE: Photograph showing Stromness harbour at night, including a large ferry, smaller working boats, harbour infrastructure and illuminated buildings. Caption: View of Stromness harbour at night.

Acronym List

• CPP — Community Planning Partnership
• EMEC — European Marine Energy Centre
• EV — Electric vehicles
• HES — Historic Environment Scotland
• HW — Heriot-Watt University
• OHAL — Orkney Housing Association Limited
• OIC — Orkney Islands Council
• OREF — Orkney Renewable Energy Forum
• ORCA — Orkney Research Centre for Archaeology
• ORIC — Orkney Research and Innovation Campus
• RIBA — Royal Institute of British Architects
• SCBF — Stromness Community Business Forum
• SCC — Stromness Community Council
• SCDT — Stromness Community Development Trust
• SNH — Scottish Natural Heritage

IMAGE: Photograph looking out from one of the many piers off the High Street, showing the sea, shoreline buildings, stone walls, boats and waterfront details. Caption: View from one of the many piers off the High Street.

1. Introduction

Over the past twenty years, the community of Stromness has benefitted from a concerted period of regeneration. The town centre’s historic buildings and public realm have received substantial investment. New and upgraded harbour facilities have been created, for example at Copland’s Dock. A new primary school and care home have been built. The town has renewables research and higher education facilities of international standing, and much more besides.

Many of these projects stemmed from the last plan prepared for Stromness, back in 2009. Not only has much of that plan now been completed, but the world has moved on. Stromness faces new challenges and opportunities, from climate change to cruise ships.

“What’s next for Stromness?” is the question that was posed to the local community in Spring 2019, through a community engagement process initiated by Orkney Islands Council (OIC), with support from local community organisations including Stromness Community Council and Stromness Community Development Trust. Funding support was provided by Sustrans. PAS, a social enterprise and charity, was appointed as independent community engagement facilitators to prepare the plan. PAS gathered current aspirations, needs and ideas from the community and stakeholders to create a shared vision and set of development principles for the town over the next 10 years.

This document — entitled Stromness Local Place Plan — outlines what’s next for Stromness for the next decade. It is the community’s vision for the future of its place and how they would like to get there. This is supported by an action plan that express’ the community priorities for change identified through a series of projects each with a range of key players, including OIC, has been identified for it’s delivery, and post-op time-frames are suggested for each project.

Stromness has a strong, vibrant community which, compared to other Scottish towns of similar size, is remarkably active and achieves a huge amount. This plan is ambitious and is a good opportunity for connecting agendas between and within the public and private sectors and the community. If anyone can deliver it, Stromness can.

Structure of this document

• Chapter 2 sets the plan in context.
• Chapter 3 describes how the plan was co-produced with the local community.
• Chapter 4 contains a vision and an action plan to deliver it.
• Chapter 5 provides more detailed information on the projects that make up the action plan.
• Chapter 6 sets the principles to guide future and existing development in Stromness.
• Chapter 7 outlines next steps.

Vision for Stromness

A place to:

• Live
• Work
• Learn
• Visit
• Play

Projects

Specific initiatives to make the vision a reality.

Principles

To guide all proposed and future projects.

IMAGE: Diagram showing the relationship between the vision for Stromness, projects and principles. “Vision for Stromness” leads to “Projects”, which leads to “Principles”.

IMAGE: Map locating Stromness within Orkney and Scotland. Shetland Islands and Orkney Islands are labelled, with a detailed inset identifying Stromness.

2. Stromness in Context

Stromness is a coastal town on the south-west corner of the Mainland of Orkney. The town is the second largest in Orkney, with a population of approximately 1,800 (source: 2011 Census), a total which has been fairly static in recent decades.

The active harbour is one of Orkney’s key arrival points by sea for ferries from the Scottish mainland, as well as serving local inter-island ferries, marine industries and smaller cruise ships.

History and heritage

Stromness has a long and unique history, as told through the Stromness Museum and the town’s unique townscape and historic buildings.

Stromnessians traditionally pride themselves on their outward looking and pioneering spirit. For centuries, the town has looked to the sea, from maritime explorers like John Rae (credited with discovering the final section of the North-West Passage in the 19th century) to a contemporary focus on renewable marine technologies, fishing and nautical training. The Ness Battery, overlooking the western approach to Scapa Flow, is a well-preserved reminder of the military importance of Orkney during the First and Second World Wars.

Community facilities

Stromness has well-established facilities including a primary school, secondary school and further and higher education institutions. There is a new library, a new care home, dental surgery and GP surgery. The Community Centre, Town Hall, Pier Arts Centre and hotels are well-used community venues for the town’s large number of active community groups and organisations covering drama, film, music, sports and other activities.

Leisure and recreation

The town has a number of play areas, natural and synthetic outdoor pitches, a golf club, a community garden, swimming pool with gym suite, squash court and a marina.

Other indoor sports facilities include a second gym at Stromness Academy, squash court and regular use of facilities like the Community Centre for badminton.

A small path network extends from the town centre along the coast in both directions, and inland to the viewpoint of Brinkies Brae.

Visitor economy

Stromness offers hotels, self-catering accommodation, bed and breakfasts and a campsite. Trade is focussed on the summer season, with many premises closing in the winter, which can make it challenging for business visitors to find accommodation during the off-season.

The town has a calendar of annual events, such as the Folk Festival and Shopping Week, which attract significant numbers of visitors and are important for local businesses. An increasing number of smaller cruise ships visit during the summer months.

Transport

Stromness has a regular bus service to Kirkwall, Orkney’s main town. Vehicle ferries operate daily from Stromness to the Scottish mainland. There are local inter-island ferries to Graemsay and Hoy.

The small size of Stromness and its confined historical layout means that the town centre is very densely built-up. Walking is generally the simplest way to move around the historic core, although steep slopes mean it can be challenging for those with mobility issues and people with young children. Parking is limited in the historic centre and is mostly provided on the edge of the town centre.

Business and economy

For a town of it size, Stromness has a diverse economy encompassing marine and renewables research and technology, with an international reputation for wave and tidal energy, maritime transport, shellfish processing, education from primary school to higher education, tourism and, of course, town centre shops, cafes and facilities.

Opportunities and challenges for the future

Stromness has many opportunities: a marine energy and technology research sector of international standing, a busy modern harbour, rich heritage and culture, outstanding townscape and scenery, plenty to interest visitors, a good range of community facilities, and an active and capable community. Together these form strong foundations to continue the town’s strong economic and community life.

Like any town, Stromness also faces challenges:

• Providing a range of good quality accommodation for residents, students and business visitors, including a choice of suitable types and tenures of housing.
• Sustaining and expanding the tourism offer and its signposting. The seasonal nature of Orkney’s tourism and relatively small visitor numbers are particular challenges.
• Sustaining and supporting local community facilities and activities in the context of reductions in public expenditure.
• Continuing to attract business, investment and population to sustain the town into the future.
• Maintaining the town’s built heritage, especially the large number of historic buildings and piers, given the expense of maintenance and upgrading to modern standards, and the risk of tidal flooding from sea level rise.
• Future growth of the town, particularly given the impact of sea level rise on buildings in the town centre and the challenge of finding developable land within walking distance of the town centre.

Existing Valued Places in Stromness

IMAGE: Map of Stromness marking 22 existing valued places, including Brinkies Brae, Copland’s Dock, the town centre, community facilities, schools, the harbour, shoreline walks and Ness Battery.

3. Engagement Approach

Participants, partners and project team at community events.

IMAGE: Six photographs showing participants and project team members taking part in community events, writing comments, working with maps, reviewing display materials and discussing proposals.

IMAGE: Community engagement drawings and questions recorded by local artist Alex Leonard. The drawings include: “PATH at FARAVEL VERY STEEP! LOTS of STEPS VERY DIFFICULT for PRAMS & ELDERLY”; “CAN FERRY ROAD BE IMPROVED FOR PEDESTRIANS? COULD IT HAVE A PROMENADE?”; “BETTER SIGNAGE FOR VISITORS”; “HOW CAN WE IMPROVE OUR GREEN SPACES AND PLAY AREAS?”; “PROMOTE HERITAGE COASTAL WALKS”; “HOW CAN WE MAKE IT EASIER FOR FOLK TO ENJOY ALL THIS WATER?”; and “MORE BENCHES WILL ENCOURAGE FOLK TO WALK INTO TOWN IF THEY KNOW THEY CAN REST”.

PAS’s Charretteplus® approach has been used to facilitate creative engagement with local residents and stakeholders before, during, and after this ‘What’s next for Stromness’ engagement process. Charretteplus® aims to work with the whole community to find out their priorities and aspirations to create a shared plan.

With a PAS project team of nine members, including facilitators, urban and landscape designers, town planners, a transport engineer and professional volunteers, PAS developed a programme of community conversations where people were encouraged to come together to discuss and share ideas for the future of Stromness.

The programme included pre-engagement discussions, drop-in sessions, school and youth club workshops, a meeting for local businesses, one-to-one discussions, surveys and online interactions.

Preliminary community engagement

Early research and discussions were conducted to establish major themes, issues and aspirations. Over 30 businesses, community groups and local Councillors were involved in these discussions.

Highlights of this phase included two days of workshops with Stromness Academy and Stromness Primary pupils to ensure that young people’s aspirations set the agenda right from the outset; a student survey for Heriot-Watt University students; a meeting with local businesses; and numerous one-to-one meetings with local community organisations to understand their aspirations and plans.

Public events

Aspirations and issues established during the initial stages informed the planning and content of a series of public drop-in events. The basic purpose of these events was to enable the community, as a whole, to discuss and agree the future vision for Stromness, and the projects that could be developed in relation to it.

The main series of afternoon/evening public drop-in events took place in the prominent Warehouse Buildings on three consecutive days from Thursday 16 to Saturday 18 May 2019. Over 150 people participated. Between each event the facilitation team worked to develop materials for the next day, moving through a sequence of vision > projects > priorities so that people could review and check each day that the emerging proposals did indeed reflect community aspirations. At the events themselves the focus was on one-to-one discussions informed by displays of community outputs such as from the earlier schools work and emerging proposals prepared between the events. All materials were also available online, with opportunities to comment.

A follow-up public event took place on 13 June 2019, with the aim of providing the local community with an opportunity to review the vision, principles and projects as a complete package, and set priorities. Over 100 people attended this event, with additional reach online.

Online engagement

At every public engagement stage, during May and June 2019, proposals and ideas were published for display online through www.whatsnextforstromness.com and social media, with opportunities for people to comment in a way that mirrored questions asked at the public events. A related travel survey was also displayed on the website.

Engagement through social media was enabled through Facebook.com/stromnessOrkney, the most active Stromness social media page with 2,000 followers, and Twitter @WNFStromness.

Social media statistics:

• Facebook — total number of posts: 28; total number of people reached with posts: 23,046.
• Twitter — total number of tweets: 33; total number of tweet impressions: 34,163.

The process of preparing the plan is summarised in the accompanying diagram (see page 16). All comments provided by the community can be seen on www.whatsnextforstromness.com.

IMAGE: Photograph showing a walkabout with Stromness Primary School pupils along a coastal or rural path.

IMAGE: Photograph showing children taking part in an engagement workshop with Stromness Primary School pupils.

Process of preparing the plan

At a glance

• 30+ pre-engagement stakeholder discussions
• 2 days of school workshops
• 4 days of community drop-in events
• 250 people attended the drop-ins

March to April 2019 — Understand the local context

• Review of baseline information and policies
• Initial engagement
• Identify opportunities and constraints

May to July 2019 — Defining the agenda

• Vision and ideas
• Collaborative short-listing of projects

August to October 2019 — Action and delivery

• Place plan drafting with project team
• Place Plan drafting with the community
• Action plan for delivery

4. Strategic Vision & Action Plan

Through the consultation process to prepare this plan, local people and organisations set a vision for Stromness with five themes.

Vision statement

These five themes are captured in this ten year vision statement for Stromness.

“Stromness is well-established as a hub for pioneering energy technology, as a location for international arts, and as a quality tourist and vibrant shopping destination. Its rich heritage and deep-rooted fishing and marine history have been embraced and enhanced for the benefit of all”.

IMAGE: Circular diagram presenting Stromness as a place to Live, Work, Learn, Visit and Play. The themes are associated with quality housing and community facilities; energy, town centre, fisheries and ferries; new technologies, arts, marine and renewables; museums, heritage and wildlife, walking and cycling routes; and watersports, outdoor play and sports, music and drama.

Stromness: A Place to Live

• Stromness high street becomes more vibrant, with clean and well maintained pavements, lanes and closes.
• Pedestrian safety at the swimming pool roundabout is improved.
• The Town Hall and Community Centre are upgraded.
• Home ownership in the town centre is encouraged and residential car parking is improved, taking account of the increasing move towards electrical vehicles.
• There are more opportunities for self-build plots and social housing, particularly in locations close to the town centre.
• There is investment in electric vehicle charging points and cycle storage.
• Sea level rise and climate change are taken seriously and mitigated against: Considering options with local experts.

IMAGE: Map showing areas and places associated with living in Stromness, including Grieveship, Faravel, Citadel, the ‘Old Town’, Sunnybank and Hamnavoe.

Stromness: A Place to Work

• The Harbour is maintained as a vital focus of employment both now and in the future.
• More support for people to start a business is provided, including offices/meeting facilities.
• The Commercial Hotel is a focus for greater employment opportunities, including the potential to open affordable offices for business start-ups.
• Empty buildings are reused for business purposes.
• Throughout the year there are more places to meet, eat and stay for business visitors connected to the renewables, education, research and marine sectors.
• RNLI facilities are upgraded.

IMAGE: Map identifying the Commercial Harbour, Heritage Harbour, Industrial Area and the ‘Old Town’ as areas associated with work.

Stromness: A Place to Learn

• Provide more affordable and higher quality student accommodation.
• Consider how to make transport from the Scottish mainland more affordable.
• Positively encourage more cafés, bars, bistros and shops.
• Capitalise on Heriot-Watt and Robert Gordon Universities’ presence as research and education hubs.
• Encourage the Nautical College, and more generally Orkney College, to develop more activities in Stromness.

IMAGE: Map identifying the European Marine Energy Centre, Nav School (Orkney College Maritime Studies Department), Stromness Academy and Stromness Primary School as places associated with learning.

Stromness: A Place to Visit

• Stromness capitalises on the cruise ship market and encourages visitors to stay longer in the town, eg by diversifying and increasing the number of attractions.
• Stromness better promotes itself as an exciting ‘all season’ destination for short breaks and festivals.
• Open and green spaces are well maintained.
• The town’s cultural offering is supported and enhanced, including expansion of the Pier Arts Centre into the old Post Office and the Stromness Museum extension.
• Stromness accommodates business and leisure visitors with a range of hotels, accommodation and restaurants open all year round and into the evening.
• Effective navigational signposting and tourist information points are developed.
• Attractive coastal walks east and west from the town centre are enhanced.
• Connections / access to Orkney-wide tourist routes are improved.

IMAGE: Map showing the town centre, campsites, Ness Battery, Brinkies Brae, coastal trails, Orkney archaeological sites, Hall of Clestrain, Stromness–Scrabster and Moaness to Stromness routes.

Stromness: A Place to Play

• Play areas should expand at the same rate as the population.
• Existing green spaces should be well maintained.
• There is coordinated access to and extended opening hours for gym facilities, swimming pool and Stromness Academy fitness facilities.
• The quality and functionality of play areas and outdoor pitches is improved.
• Better use is made of the Community Centre as a sheltered ‘gathering place’ for all age groups.
• Stromness capitalises fully on the Island Games 2023.

IMAGE: Map showing Market Green, swimming pool, pitches, Hamnavoe Play Area, Garson Play Area, Community Centre Play Area, Marwick Playing Field / Play Area, Golf Course, South End Play Area, Faravel Amenity Space and Community Garden.

Potential Projects in Stromness

*Non-spatial projects are not identified on plan.

IMAGE: Map showing the locations of potential projects in Stromness. Numbered markers identify projects around the town, harbour, shoreline, Ness Battery, campsite and coastal routes.

IMAGE: Photograph showing the historic piers and skyline of Stromness across the water. Caption: View of the historic piers and skyline of Stromness.

Action Plan

Timeframe: Short-term = 1–5 years; Medium-term = 5–10 years; Long-term = 10–20 years.

5. Detailed Project Proposals

Project duration

• Short term — p28
• Short to medium term — p38
• Medium term — p48
• Short / medium to long term — p54
• Long term — p59

1. Boat heritage centre
2. Co-ordinated management of facilities
3. Community-led improvements to Garson and Hamnavoe play areas
4. Shore path lighting
5. Redevelop old post office as arts hub
6. Marwick play area and playing field
7. Old primary school
8. Ness Battery
9. Path routes
10. Maintenance of open space
11. Explore potential of Old St Peters Care Home for other purposes
12. Refurbish Town Hall and Community Centre
13. Safer route to school along Ferry Road
14. Faravel amenity space and former play area
15. Drama Club space for storage and rehearsals
16. Historic piers
17. EV and car parking
18. Watersports Hub
19. Campsite extension
20. Stromness Museum extension
21. Housing
22. Marina upgrade

Project 1 — Boat Heritage Centre

Project

Historic boat centre at Copland’s dock.

Proposal

Orkney Historic Boat Society (OHBS) recently appointed architects Reiach and Hall, Edinburgh, to design a bespoke dedicated Boat Haven / Museum building for Orkney. The location is on the site of the 19th century boatyard at Copland’s Dock. Outline plans have been discussed with OIC planning department.

The proposed boat heritage centre would be a centre for traditional boat-building and repair, offering educational and visitor opportunities, and be a key destination along the coastal walk around Hamnavoe.

Key Players

Orkney Historic Boat Society.

First steps

Design, fund-raising.

Timescale

Short-term.

IMAGE: Map showing the proposed project location at Copland’s Dock.

IMAGE: Photograph of a traditional boat and the Orkney Historic Boat Society building, with the text “Orkney Historic Boat Society — For the preservation of Orkney Boats”.

IMAGE: Photograph showing the existing Copland’s Dock area, shoreline, stone walls and harbour. Caption: Existing view.

Project 2 — Co-ordinated Management of Community Facilities

Project

Co-ordinated management of community facilities.

Proposal

Co-ordinated management of Stromness Community Centre, Town Hall, swimming pool, sports facilities and school premises for community use.

Key Players

OIC in consultation with the local community.

First steps

Discussion between OIC, SCC and user groups to establish resources available, demand and scope the possibilities.

Timescale

Short-term.

IMAGE: Map showing the locations of Stromness Academy, Stromness swimming pool and Stromness Community Centre.

IMAGE: Photograph of an indoor community event at Stromness Academy. Caption: 1. Stromness Academy.

IMAGE: Photograph showing people swimming in Stromness swimming pool. Caption: 2. Stromness swimming pool.

IMAGE: Photograph showing the entrance and steps to Stromness Community Centre. Caption: 3. Stromness Community Centre.

Project 3 — Hamnavoe and Garson Play Areas

Project

Community-led improvements to Hamnavoe and Garson play areas.

Proposal

Improve existing play areas within context of OIC’s Orkney Play Area Strategy. Consider teenagers’ play facilities such as skate park and multi-generational outdoor exercise equipment.

Key Players

Local residents, OIC, landowner.

First steps

Form residents’ group, explore with OIC.

Timescale

Short-term.

IMAGE: Map marking the Hamnavoe play area and Garson play area.

IMAGE: Photograph of a natural play area with grassed mounds, timber structures and a child riding a bicycle. Caption: Draper’s Field, London.

IMAGE: Photograph of an outdoor exercise and play area with concrete blocks labelled “10 SIT UPS”. Caption: Possil Gym Wall, Glasgow.

Hamnavoe play area

The Hamnavoe and Garson play areas are small grassed and fenced spaces set within the main housing area. The play areas have fallen into disrepair, with most pieces of play equipment needing repairing or replacing along with the safety play surface (example shown below).

Ideas for future change

1. Potential for a range of age groups to play in the same space, e.g. parkour, skateboard
2. Bespoke play equipment to community design / needs
3. Surfaces with patterns designed by local children
4. External softplay / seating
5. Temporary structures / decking
6. Extent of soft surface subject to community conversations
7. Colour to be introduced into play space

IMAGE: Existing photograph of the Hamnavoe play area, showing a grassed and fenced space with play equipment.

IMAGE: Annotated visualisation showing proposed improvements to the Hamnavoe play area, numbered to correspond to the seven ideas for future change.

IMAGE: Visualisation showing a redesigned play area with children, adults, colourful play structures, seating, climbing features and multi-generational activities.

Project 4 — Lighting on Shore Path

Project

Improve lights on shore path to Copland’s Dock.

Proposal

Pole-mounted or other additional lighting to cast better light during dark evenings.

Key Players

SCC, Renewables / tech sector, OIC, landowner.

First steps

Agree scope of project, engage with planning department, prepare proposals and seek funding.

Timescale

Short-term.

IMAGE: Map showing the shore path beside the water and the proposed project location.

IMAGE: Photograph of lighting, seating and a waterfront path at Helsingborg, Sweden. Caption: Helsingborg waterfront, Sweden.

IMAGE: Photograph of a lit pedestrian path with seating in a wooded setting. Caption: Moscow, Russia.

Shore path

The photograph of the existing shore path below shows a narrow, gravel path, approximately 1.2m wide. The landscape through which the path runs is rural in character, primarily grass with patches of reeds, but little or no wildflowers or plants with colour. There are no formal areas or facilities to rest, sit or take in the amazing views across the bay. There is currently no lighting, signage or wayfinding measures. There is no formal access to the beach or the waterfront.

Ideas for future change

1. Locally produced signage — materials to fit location
2. Coastal wildflowers to add colour and seasonality
3. Upgrading of footpath to accommodate shared use
4. Lighting / seating cubes to light footpath and provide areas for resting
5. Timber deck and bench with multi-directional views

IMAGE: Existing photograph showing the narrow gravel shore path beside grass, reeds and the bay.

IMAGE: Annotated visualisation showing proposed signage, seating, lighting, upgraded path and waterfront access, numbered to correspond to the five ideas for future change.

IMAGE: Visualisation showing a shared coastal path with signage, wildflowers, a timber viewing deck, seating and people walking and cycling.

Project 5 — Old Post Office

Project

Redevelop old post office as arts hub.

Proposal

Redevelopment as a home for creative learning and participation — a dedicated space for the Pier Arts Centre’s learning programme enabling closer collaboration between the local community and artistic practitioners.

Key Players

Pier Arts Centre, OIC, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Creative Scotland (Islands Deal draft project).

First steps

RIBA Stage 3, Fundraising.

Timescale

Short-term.

Next steps

The former Stromness Post Office building offers the ideal location to develop new and innovative facilities and programmes for the Pier Arts Centre, providing space and opportunities for collaboration with other cultural organisations in Orkney and further afield.

The re-development of this prominent civic building in the heart of Stromness will create new and dynamic public spaces for performances and community events, and help revitalise the town’s commercial centre.

The project aims to establish a dedicated space for the Pier Arts Centre’s learning programme. It will position the Pier Arts Centre as a local creative venue and residency facility enabling closer collaboration between the local community and artistic practitioners. It will help boost the burgeoning calendar of festivals, provide links to schools and academic partners, while establishing a new means of engagement with growing and diverse audiences, both local and visiting.

The development will also offer crucial additional space for the Pier Arts Centre to expand facilities for the care of its world-class and growing collection.

IMAGE: Map showing the former post office project location near Victoria Street and John Street.

IMAGE: Photograph showing a view from the Pier Arts Centre towards the street. Caption: View from Pier Arts Centre.

IMAGE: Photograph showing the existing Stromness Post Office building. Caption: Existing Stromness Post Office.

Project 6 — Marwick Play Area / Field

Project

Marwick play area and playing field.

Proposal

Upgrade as natural play area, integrate access with Stromness Community Garden and Brinkies Brae paths. Improve accessibility & landscape, include more colour and greenery in the area, natural play, spaces for scooters/bikes (non-motorised items), running track.

Key Players

Grieveship Residents Association, Community Garden, OIC, SCDT.

First steps

Agree scope of project, prepare proposals and seek funding.

Timescale

Short-term.

IMAGE: Map showing the Marwick play area and playing field project location.

IMAGE: Photograph of a natural play area with tunnels, planting and children playing. Caption: Kimberley Park, Cornwall.

IMAGE: Photograph of children playing in a landscaped natural play area. Caption: The Hague, Netherlands.

Marwick play area / field

The Marwick Play area is located at the western edge of the town, immediately adjacent to the Grieveship residential area. The site, approximately 1.7ha, consists primarily of rough, steeply sloping grassland, falling north west to south east. Whilst the site connects to the Grieveship housing to the south, it also connects to other community facilities in the wider setting, with the Stromness Community Gardens immediately to the north and routes along the eastern edge to Brinkies Brae paths further north.

The site currently caters for informal play in its north western half, whilst a small play area in the south western corner provides for more formal play. The play equipment is old and needs replaced.

Ideas for future change

1. Existing play area upgraded
2. Playing field upgraded
3. Facilities for wheeled play, BMX, bikes and blades (non-motorised items)
4. Natural play mounds including tunnels, pole play, slides and steps
5. Paths upgraded and extended to Brinkies Brae
6. Habitats enhanced with wildflowers and natural vegetation
7. Signage

IMAGE: Existing photograph showing the rough grassland and informal play area at Marwick.

IMAGE: Annotated visualisation showing proposed paths, play areas, wheeled-play facilities, natural play mounds, planting and signage, numbered to correspond to the seven ideas for future change.

IMAGE: Visualisation showing a landscaped Marwick playing field with paths, wildflower planting, natural play mounds, tunnels, children playing and people walking or cycling.

Project 7 — Old Primary School Playpark

Project

Refurbishment of old primary school outdoor spaces.

Proposal

Improve outdoor space at old primary playpark and at the front and to the side of ORIC former Primary School building, with a focus on renewables / technology, arts and greenspace. Improve linkage and pedestrian access from town centre and Warehouse Buildings to ORIC Campus. Potential for addition of a flexible visitor and interpretation centre telling the energy and sustainability story of the Isles.

Key Players

OIC, renewables sector, SCDT.

First steps

Discuss possibilities, engage with planning department, prepare proposals and seek funding.

Timescale

Short to medium term.

IMAGE: Map showing the old primary school project location.

IMAGE: Photograph showing the old primary school site in June 2019. Caption: View from old primary school site — June 2019.

IMAGE: Photograph of the BRE Ravenscraig interpretation centre, showing a passive-design prefabricated unit. Caption: Image of precedent project, BRE Ravenscraig interpretation centre — passive design & pre-fabricated unit.

Old primary school playpark

The old primary school site lies at the northern end of the town, surrounded primarily by residential properties. The high street lies directly east whilst the old primary school new build is immediately south. The site is approximately 1500m², terraced with two hard landscape platforms that gently slope west to east. The platforms contain some old remnants of former play structures and planting, whilst the lower terrace has a number of disused outbuildings. Surrounding and enclosing the site is a 2m+ natural stone wall, and at the eastern edge of the site a steel mesh fence retains balls from play.

There is no direct vehicular route, although access could be managed from Franklin Road. Pedestrian access is also limited but available from a narrow vennel along the south western boundary of the site.

The site provides the main open / play space within the core of the town, as well as views to the east across the harbour area.

Ideas for future change

1. Stepped terraces to create level play areas and seating areas
2. Play structures to provide physical and mental stimulation
3. Tree planting to screen and add visual interest
4. Play / activity structures to provide shelter
5. Lower level provides opportunity to accommodate renewable technologies such as old turbines
6. Floor area to be animated by patterns and information such as sign language
7. Historical references
8. Look out points

IMAGE: Existing photograph showing the old primary school playpark, terraces, trees, walls and harbour beyond.

IMAGE: Annotated visualisation showing proposed terraces, play structures, trees, shelter, renewable technology, patterns, historical references and lookout points, numbered to correspond to the eight ideas for future change.

IMAGE: Visualisation showing a redesigned playpark with stepped seating, climbing equipment, swings, play structures, trees, harbour views and people using the space.

Project 8 — Ness Battery

Project

Ness Battery.

Proposal

Open up the Battery for greater public access, engaging the local community such as schools and college.

Key Players

OIC, SCDT, SCC, local community/tour guides, HES.

First steps

Seek advice from OIC regarding feasibility, canvas interest from local community, prepare management plan for the area.

Timescale

Short to medium term.

IMAGE: Map showing the Ness Battery project location near Ness Point.

IMAGE: Photograph showing the existing Ness Battery site, including historic structures, modern buildings, grassland, water and surrounding hills. Caption: Existing view.

Ness Battery

The Ness Battery was a crucial element of the defence of the western entrance to Scapa flow. The Battery lies at the south western edge of the town, next to the Stromness Golf Course (east and south) and agricultural land (west).

The site contains remnants of the historic military use with a number of wooden huts still present, whilst in the centre are a number of modern prefabricated units. The whole site is enclosed by a steel mesh fence. Stabilisation and renovation works were completed in 2012. The site is now open and used for guided tours. Access is from the south along the Guardhouse Park track.

Exemplar project

As a starting point to illustrate what can be achieved within a similar context, Hoy’s and Wall’s wartime heritage, led by the Island of Hoy Development Trust, is presented as an exemplar project.

Based on the study of the Island of Hoy’s WWII archaeological heritage in 2013, the project aims were to assess the legacy of the wartime heritage as a community catalyst, to establish whether this resource could be used to develop a tourism attraction and create revenue from it, and to see if this project could help to deliver a multi-generational approach.

Several activities have been implemented and could inspire a similar approach for opening Ness Battery to the public:

• A community archaeological survey
• Community school project using archaeological site investigation
• Outdoor educational geocache orienteering trail
• Drop-in/Open door sessions
• Evening talks and guided tours

Feedback and attendance have demonstrated a huge interest in developing the access to Lyness Naval base. The following outputs have been identified: archaeological resource management, community enhancement, tourism and education.

If all-year long site access remains an issue for Ness Battery, it is also worth mentioning the option of virtual interpretation (at a visitor attraction or in the library in Stromness). Several examples of virtual reality technology and games have been implemented by museums and HES alike.

IMAGE: Aerial photograph of Lyness Naval Base on the Island of Hoy, showing the harbour, piers, buildings, roads and surrounding landscape. Caption: Lyness Naval Base, Island of Hoy, Orkney.

Project 9 — Path Routes

Project

Develop path routes within the town centre, along the coast from the east to the west, and up to Brinkies Brae, and link to other destinations on the mainland.

Proposal

• Improve visitor signage in and from the town centre, including library and museum.
• Encourage walking, with joined up paths linked to bus stops and ferry terminal.
• Create a business directory of shops and opening times linked to signage strategy.
• Create and sign a range of accessible path loops from Copland’s Dock to Navershaw, with the intention of ultimately extending to Brig o’Waithe.
• Develop a wider network of themed cycling/walking trails linked with renewables/heritage/arts along the coast and inland to the heart of neolithic Orkney, Hamnavoe and the beach.
• Conserve natural habitats.

Key Players

SCDT, OIC, SCC, Arts/business sectors, SNH.

First steps

Agree scope of project, prepare proposals and seek funding.

Timescale

Short to medium term.

IMAGE: Map showing proposed path routes around Stromness, including coastal routes, routes to Brinkies Brae, an EV route from the town centre to the south end, and links to destinations on the mainland.

IMAGE: Photograph showing a coastal path and waterfront in Le Pouliguen, France. Caption: Le Pouliguen, France.

IMAGE: Photograph showing a narrow concrete path through coastal grassland in Kjekså, Bud, Norway. Caption: Kjekså, Bud, Norway.

Path routes

The existing paths around the Stromness coast, and through the town, vary in quality and character. Rural paths are generally narrow foot-worn tracks, and accommodate walkers only. There is no lighting, and little or no signage or markers. Routes within the urban areas are mixed, on paths and along shared surface routes, but with little signage and no formal provision for cyclists.

Ideas for future change

1. Upgraded footpath. Exact materials to be agreed and must be appropriate to location and use
2. Existing coastal habitats improved through new planting, including wildflower, bulbs and grasses
3. Artistic features to be incorporated into design / development, including walls and protection measures
4. Informal seating and view-points to be provided along the sea edge
5. Provision of platforms and access ramps to provide access for all to the water’s edge

IMAGE: Existing photograph showing a coastal path beside the sea, with grassland and rocky shoreline.

IMAGE: Annotated visualisation showing proposed upgraded paths, planting, artistic features, seating, viewpoints, platforms and access ramps, numbered to correspond to the five ideas for future change.

IMAGE: Visualisation showing an improved coastal route with planting, seating, a viewing platform and access to the water’s edge.

Project 10 — Maintenance of Open Space

Project

Maintenance of open space.

Proposal

Develop a sustainable approach to grounds maintenance in partnership with the local community.

Key Players

OIC in consultation with the local community.

First steps

Discussion between OIC, SCC and user groups to establish available resources, demand and scope the possibilities.

Timescale

Short to medium term.

IMAGE: Map showing the project as Stromness-wide.

IMAGE: Photograph of community garden maintenance work by CATCH Leeds. Caption: CATCH Leeds Community Garden maintenance.

IMAGE: Photograph of a community group undertaking scything and grounds maintenance. Caption: Community Scything, Little Wormwood Scrubs.

Project 11 — Old St Peter’s Care Home

Project

Explore potential of existing St Peter’s Care Home for other purposes.

Proposal

Consider other uses such as student housing, low cost homes for local need, and specialist elderly housing through refurbishment and/or demolition and new build.

The currently LDP allocation for this site, STR.26, states:

‘A development brief would be required for this allocation. There may be culverted watercourses running through the site. The site includes a former manse, associated outbuildings and a walled garden; these should be retained in any redevelopment’.

Key Players

OIC, SCDT, further/higher education institutions, OHAL, CPP.

First steps

Feasibility study into future use.

Timescale

Short to medium term.

IMAGE: Map showing the Old St Peter’s Care Home project location within Stromness.

IMAGE: Photograph showing the existing care home entrance and surrounding stone buildings. Caption: Existing view.

IMAGE: Photograph showing a refurbished historic building with a contemporary entrance intervention. Caption: Essômes-sur-Marne, France.

Project 12 — Refurbish Town Hall and Community Centre

Project

Major refurbishment of Town Hall and Community Centre.

Proposal

Major modernisation to provide internal toilets, changing facilities and disabled access.

Key Players

OIC Education dept, Friends of Stromness Town Hall.

First steps

Feasibility study and identify funding — arts funds.

Timescale

Short to medium term.

IMAGE: Map showing the two project locations: 1. Town Hall; 2. Community Centre.

IMAGE: Photograph showing the existing Town Hall interior, including organ, gallery, seating and stairway. Caption: Existing.

IMAGE: Photograph showing a refurbished community centre interior with timber flooring, fireplace and portraits. Caption: Udny Community Centre after refurbishment.

IMAGE: Photograph showing Town Hall and historic waterfront buildings at the heart of Stromness, viewed across the water. Caption: View of Town Hall at the heart of Stromness.

Project 13 — A Safer Route to School

Project

Improve the safety of the route to school along Ferry Road.

Proposal

New cantilever walkway and reorganisation of existing layout, to create continuous walking/cycling route to better connect the town centre with schools, Hamnavoe and Copland’s Dock.

Key Players

SCC, SCDT, Community, OIC.

First steps

Agree scope of project, prepare proposals and seek funding.

Timescale

Short to medium term.

IMAGE: Map showing the proposed route along Ferry Road between the town centre, schools, Hamnavoe and Copland’s Dock.

IMAGE: Photograph of a waterside pedestrian walkway in Dublin. Caption: River Liffy, Dublin, Ireland.

IMAGE: Photograph of a separated walking and cycling route in an urban park. Caption: Utrecht, Netherlands.

Safer route to school

The existing safer route to school along Ferry Road connects Stromness Primary School, Stromness Academy and the residential areas of Hamnavoe with the core of Stromness town and Stromness Harbour / Marina. The route runs alongside the busy entry road into the town with no clear direction or division of pedestrian space. The route is unattractive and car dominated with no access to the water. At the southern section of the route the path gets lost within areas of car parking.

Ideas for future change

1. Potential cantilevered walkway to assist a safer route to school
2. ‘Gateway’ function indicating feature lighting and seating / meeting space
3. Improved walkway to better connect the town with Hamnavoe
4. Embankment improved with coastal edge planting

IMAGE: Existing photograph showing Ferry Road beside the water, with a narrow path, railing, road and harbour edge.

IMAGE: Annotated visualisation showing a proposed cantilevered walkway, gateway, improved connection and planted embankment, numbered to correspond to the four ideas for future change.

IMAGE: Visualisation showing a continuous waterfront walking and cycling route with directional markings, railings and people using the walkway.

Project 14 — Faravel Amenity Space

Project

Faravel amenity space and former play area: accessibility & landscape improvements.

Proposal

Revive as an intergenerational outdoor space for community use, such as small events and relaxation. Improved accessibility and landscape quality.

Key Players

Local residents, OIC.

First steps

Form group, seek advice from OIC and Stromness Community Development Trust.

Timescale

Medium-term.

IMAGE: Map showing the Faravel amenity space project location near Alfred Street and Dundas Street.

IMAGE: Photograph showing a ramped, accessible path through a landscaped space. Caption: Ramped access accessible for all.

IMAGE: Photograph showing a landscaped amenity space with planting and timber structures. Caption: Dalston amenity space, London.

Faravel amenity space

The Faravel amenity space lies approximately halfway along the town, at its western edge. The site is approximately 1,100m² within a mainly residential sector of the town, although the space does connect to further green space north and south.

The site itself primarily consists of rough grassland, bisected by a narrow footpath which connects Faravel and the Back Road to the historic core, the main high street, Stromness Museum and the wider waterfront. The footpath is accessed from a narrow entrance at the east, whilst the western end steps and narrow access points make it inaccessible for disabled people.

Ideas for future change

1. Community planting programme
2. Community shelter and events space
3. Community productive garden including raised planters
4. Community signage and identity on ground and pathways
5. Improved accessibility, through Faravel open space, for all
6. Combined cycle way and footpath

IMAGE: Existing photograph showing the rough grassland, path, walls and surrounding residential buildings at Faravel.

IMAGE: Annotated visualisation showing proposed planting, shelter, productive garden, signage, accessible routes and combined cycleway, numbered to correspond to the six ideas for future change.

IMAGE: Visualisation showing an improved Faravel amenity space with accessible paths, raised planters, community planting, a timber shelter, seating and people gardening and walking.

Project 15 — Drama Club Space for Storage and Rehearsals

Project

Drama Club space for storage and rehearsals.

Proposal

Research opportunity for a building or piece of land for the club to rehearse, meet, store and construct sets. The drama club currently has limited space in terms of storage, space, and basic access to electricity.

Key Players

Stromness Drama Club.

First steps

Approach OIC and SCDT for guidance.

Timescale

Medium-term.

IMAGE: Photograph of the Beacon Arts Centre auditorium in Greenock, Scotland, showing a stage, audience seating and balconies. Caption: Beacon Arts Centre, Greenock, Scotland.

IMAGE: Two photographs from recent productions staged by the Stromness Drama Club, showing actors performing on stage. Caption: Images from recent productions staged by the Stromness Drama Club.

Project 16 — Historic Piers

Project

Ensure the heritage value of the town’s historic piers is recorded and the piers themselves are conserved.

Proposal

Condition survey and feasibility study to establish their condition and record heritage value of the piers, understand future risks from erosion and sea level rise, establish the works required to safeguard their future, and outline proposals for improved access from land and water, information, signage and interpretation.

Key Players

Piers Working Group, OIC, landowners, further/higher education institutions, ORCA.

First steps

Approach OIC and SCDT for guidance.

Timescale

Medium-term.

IMAGE: Map showing the historic piers along Stromness’s waterfront.

IMAGE: Archive photograph showing a member of the Piers Working Group examining a historic pier wall.

IMAGE: Photograph showing historic stone pier structures and waterfront buildings.

Project 17 — EV and Car Parking

Project

Develop strategies and create appropriate opportunities to accommodate the cycle and electric vehicle charging needs of the town as well as the seasonal demands of summer tourists.

Proposal 1

Install cycle racks / shelters throughout the town at appropriate locations.

Key Players

SCDT, Community, OIC.

First steps

Agree scope of project, identify appropriate locations, prepare designs and seek funding.

Timescale

Short to long term.

Proposal 2

Install community EV charging points throughout the town at appropriate locations.

Key Players

SCDT, Community, OIC, OREF.

First steps

Agree scope of project, identify appropriate locations of EV points, prepare designs and seek funding.

Timescale

Short to medium term.

Proposal 3

Carry out a usage survey to inform the reallocation of space to create a more efficient and user friendly parking layout along Ferry Road which will complement the proposed cantilever pedestrian walkway.

Key Players

SCC, SCDT, OIC.

First steps

Agree scope of project, prepare outline designs in tandem with the walkway proposals and seek funding.

Timescale

Medium term.

Proposal 4

Develop an innovative design maximising the use of the topography for a multilevel car park at the Old Academy which would be available to staff, campus visitors, local residents and guests of nearby hotels.

Key Players

HW, EMEC, ORIC, OIC.

First steps

Explore feasibility of options.

Timescale

Medium to long term.

IMAGE: Map showing Proposal 3 along Ferry Road and Proposal 4 at the Old Academy.

IMAGE: Aerial photograph showing the approach into Stromness, Ferry Road, harbour, sports pitches, schools, roads and existing car parking. Caption: View of approach in to Stromness including existing car parking along Ferry Road.

Project 18 — Watersports Hub

Project

Watersports hub.

Proposal

To create a watersports hub, including a new building with changing facilities at old slipway, for sailing, kayaking, rowing, and openwater swimming. Phased project including slipway upgrade and enlargement. Provide outdoor storage to share with the golf club.

Key Players

Other watersports clubs; landowners.

First steps

Approach landowners and golf club to establish scope of project and how to move it forward.

Timescale

Medium to long term.

IMAGE: Map showing the proposed watersports hub at Ness Point.

IMAGE: Photograph showing a watersports centre, beach and sailing boats in Dundee. Caption: Dundee, Scotland.

IMAGE: Photograph showing a busy watersports pier and open-water swimming area. Caption: Faaborg, Denmark.

Watersports hub

The Watersports Hub is proposed to be located at the existing sailing club at Ness Point, at the southern end of Stromness. Access is from the southern end of Ness Road, which also provides access to the Point of Ness Caravan and Camping Site.

The site is approximately 0.56ha, and is a mix of hard standing and grass. There are a number of buildings on the site, old stone and slate buildings, a large storage shed and temporary cabins. A number of boats are scattered across the areas of grass, whilst formal storage is provided at the southern edge of the site with a fenced and gated space.

Ideas for future change

1. Existing slipway to be enlarged and expanded to accommodate various boat sizes
2. Potential to include pontoon walkway for alternative water sports
3. Redevelopment of existing building / development of new building as a ‘Watersports hub’
4. Re-organised boat storage and maintenance area
5. Improved signage and identification of facility
6. Re-organised access / entrance point to create sense of arrival

IMAGE: Existing photograph showing the sailing club, boats, slipway, buildings and shoreline at Ness Point.

IMAGE: Annotated visualisation showing the proposed slipway, pontoon, watersports hub building, boat storage, signage and entrance, numbered to correspond to the six ideas for future change.

IMAGE: Visualisation showing a proposed watersports hub building at Ness Point, with boats, pontoons, storage areas and people using the waterfront. The building is labelled “Ness Point Watersports Hub”.

Project 19 — Campsite Extension

Project

Renewal and upgrade of existing campsite in Stromness.

Proposal

Providing expanded campsite accommodation and improving facilities within Stromness. Options include extension of the existing facilities at Ness Point, subject to demand. Another option for overspill provision could be the Market Green.

Key Players

OIC.

First steps

Approach relevant landowners to establish location and scope of project and how to move forward.

Timescale

Medium to long term.

IMAGE: Map showing possible campsite extension locations, including Ness Point and an alternative area near Market Green.

IMAGE: Photograph showing tents and camping equipment at the campsite beside the water. Caption: Campsite at Ness Point.

Project 20 — Stromness Museum Extension

Project

Stromness Museum.

Proposal

Extension of existing museum building and facilities.

Key Players

Stromness Museum and local community.

First steps

Planning approval and funding research.

Timescale

Long term.

IMAGE: Map showing the Stromness Museum extension project location.

IMAGE: Photograph showing Stromness Museum and its surrounding historic stone buildings. Caption: Stromness Museum.

Project 21 — Housing

Project

Housing.

Proposal

Identify and develop existing and new opportunities for a range of housing across Stromness, including self-build plots. Any future extension to the town’s settlement boundaries should maximise access by foot and bicycle to the town centre.

Key Players

OIC, landowners, OHAL, local contractors.

First steps

Discussion with OIC.

Timescale

Long term.

IMAGE: Map showing the settlement boundary as defined in the Local Development Plan (LDP), including Grieveship, Faravel, Citadel, the ‘Old Town’, Sunnybank and Hamnavoe.

Project 22 — Marina Upgrade

Project

Marina and associated facilities.

Proposal

Improvement and expansion of existing marina facilities.

Key Players

OIC and relevant clubs and users.

First steps

Discussion between OIC, Orkney Marinas and relevant clubs.

Timescale

Long term.

IMAGE: Map showing the marina upgrade project location in the harbour.

IMAGE: Photograph showing Stromness Marina, including ferry facilities, harbour buildings, roads, parking and boats. Caption: Stromness Marina.

IMAGE: Photograph showing Stromness from the bay, with waterfront buildings, historic houses, harbour walls and the town rising behind the shoreline. Caption: Stromness from the bay.

6. Development Principles

Six key principles have been established to guide all existing and future projects and development in Stromness. These development principles are set out below.

1. Sustainability

Zero-carbon by 2030 through the mitigation and adaptation of climate change management practices, for example with high quality built environment and low-carbon transport, district heating, renewable energy solutions etc.

2. A Strong Supported Local Economy

Economic sectors in renewable energy, arts, digital and fishing lead the way, with cross-sectoral working.

3. A Vibrant Town Centre

Town centre vibrancy exists all-year round with more shops, eating places and a reduction in the number of empty shops.

4. Quality Design

Inspired good design reflects the local vernacular and brings colour to the townscape, housing and other new developments.

5. Multi-functional Playspaces

A network of local play spaces around the town are accessible to all and encourage play, biodiversity, outdoor learning, food growing and nature conservation for all age groups.

6. Community Life

Community facilities are fit for purpose, offering a good mix of accommodation and services for the local community, and managed appropriately with and for the local community.

IMAGE: Diagram showing the relationship between the vision for Stromness, projects and principles. “Vision for Stromness” leads to “Projects”, which leads to “Principles”.

IMAGE: Photograph showing historic buildings on the pier, including stone walls, a crane, seating and waterfront structures. Caption: View of historic buildings on the pier.

7. Next Steps

The strategic vision, development principles and action plan in this report have been co-produced with the local community in Stromness. The document helps the local community to achieve its vision by:

• Providing a long term strategic vision and principles against which future projects and initiatives can be assessed.
• Identifying a list of priority projects and relevant partners as appropriate.
• Supporting individual community projects to progress to the next stage, whether that be by seeking funding, volunteers or premises.
• Helping the Council and its Community Planning partners to understand the local community’s aspirations, and so target their services and investments to be as responsive as possible.
• Informing the next reviews of the Local Development Plan and Stromness Settlement Statement, particularly in relation to issues such as the location and nature of new housing, how and where the town should grow in the future, the design quality of new development, retaining a vibrant and populated town centre, and how the town should adapt to sea level rise.

It is recommended that the community agrees one or two projects on which to focus on and deliver within the next 12 months. This will help to maintain momentum, recruit community volunteers and sustain enthusiasm for the long term.

IMAGE: Photograph showing proposed project panels displayed at a community event, with a person reviewing materials at a table. Caption: Proposed project panels at second community event.

For further information please contact Stromness Community Development Trust by email:

stromnessorkney@hotmail.com