Find more funding
There are many other organisations who may be offering funding that will help you, and our handy funding search tool brings them all together.
Work is continuing across a wide range of projects designed to shape the future of Fort William and Lochaber through the Fort William 2040 (FW2040) programme, with partners highlighting strong progress and a growing pipeline of investment opportunities.
FW2040 brings together The Highland Council and a range of partner organisations behind a shared vision to create an attractive place to live, work, visit and invest. Developed in collaboration with local communities, businesses and stakeholders, the programme provides a long-term roadmap for sustainable growth and regeneration across the area.
Since launching, 13 projects have already been completed, with further initiatives progressing. Achievements include new housing developments, flood protection measures, active travel improvements, enhanced visitor facilities, digital connectivity upgrades and investment in Fort William town centre.
Chair of the Lochaber Area Committee, Councillor Kate Willis said:
“FW2040 is about taking a long-term view and working together to deliver meaningful improvements for Fort William and Lochaber.
“While many of the projects are complex and take time to develop, real progress is being made, and momentum is growing. We have already seen significant investment delivered across the area and there is a strong pipeline of projects that will help support communities, businesses and visitors over the coming years.
“The strength of FW2040 is the partnership approach, bringing organisations together behind a shared vision for the area we call home.”
Over the coming year, FW2040 partners will focus on several priorities, including advancing plans for Fort William town centre, supporting future culture and leisure facilities, and progressing the Fort William Integrated Transport Plan. The transport work aims to develop practical proposals that improve movement around the town and across the wider Lochaber area.
The programme will also continue to support wider developments in housing, healthcare, active travel, community facilities and economic growth. A recent review of culture and leisure provision has identified opportunities for more modern, accessible and flexible facilities, with further work now underway to help shape future investment decisions.
Progress is also being made on transport infrastructure proposals, including improvements to the town’s bus station and wider transport links. Alongside this, FW2040 plans to enhance public engagement by updating its online information, making it easier for residents and stakeholders to track progress and understand how individual projects contribute to the overall vision.
FW2040 Project Manager Alison Martin said:
“The programme continues to evolve as projects progress and new opportunities emerge.
“Our focus is on ensuring effort is directed where it can add the greatest value, supporting projects that will help create a vibrant, connected and sustainable future for Fort William and Lochaber.
“Partnership working remains at the heart of FW2040 and we look forward to continuing to work with communities, businesses and organisations as we move into the next phase of delivery.”
The programme’s broader aim is to ensure investment across housing, transport, health, culture, tourism, economic development and community infrastructure is coordinated to maximise benefits for local people and support a thriving future for generations to come.
Read more: Fort William 2040 continues to build momentum for the future – Highland Council
