£3 Million Support Package Announced as Cairngorms Businesses Help Shape Wildfire Recovery

Scottish Government funding and a collaborative recovery programme will support affected businesses, safeguard jobs and strengthen long-term resilience across the Cairngorms.

Group of firefighters in red and yellow gear speaking to a man in a suit during an outdoor briefing.

Businesses impacted by the recent wildfire in the Cairngorms National Park are set to benefit from a new package of support, with the Scottish Government confirming up to £3 million in funding to aid recovery and help firms navigate the economic challenges caused by the incident.

The funding will be distributed through a Highland Council support scheme designed to assist businesses affected by the wildfire. The initiative aims to provide immediate financial relief, support business continuity and contribute to the area’s longer-term economic recovery.

The wildfire had a significant impact on local communities and businesses, particularly those located within the exclusion zone where trading activity was disrupted during emergency response operations.

Dense forested hills partially obscured by thick smoke created by wildfire.

Economy and Tourism Secretary Stephen Flynn said:

“The wildfire in the Cairngorms National Park has had a significant impact on many businesses, particularly those premises within the cordon that have been unable to trade.

“I want to thank business owners, employees and local residents for their patience and understanding of the necessary precautions put in place by emergency services to tackle the fire and maintain public safety.

“We understand the difficult position that many now face which is why I am pleased to be able to confirm up to £3 million for the Highland Council to support affected businesses directly.

“This will provide immediate relief for impacted businesses but we will continue to work closely with the Highland Council, HIE and Cairngorms National Park Authority on what further support may be required for the area in the longer term.”

Alongside financial support, a multi-agency recovery group has been established to assess the economic impact of the wildfire and plan further assistance measures. The partnership includes The Highland Council, Business Gateway Highland, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, the Scottish Government, the Cairngorms National Park Authority and the Cairngorms Business Partnership.

Businesses are also being invited to help shape the recovery response through a survey being coordinated by the Cairngorms Business Partnership. Feedback gathered will help partners understand the scale of the disruption, identify immediate and long-term support needs, and inform future resilience planning for the area.

A series of business engagement meetings is also taking place, providing opportunities for affected firms to share experiences, raise concerns and discuss priorities for recovery. Support and advice continue to be available through Business Gateway Highland.

The combined approach of direct financial assistance and collaborative recovery planning aims to help safeguard local jobs, support businesses through ongoing challenges and strengthen the long-term resilience of communities across the Cairngorms.

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