IFLI could be 'genesis of bigger projects to come'

The success of the Inner Forth Landscape Initiative (IFLI), which delivered 13 times the value for every pound Clackmannanshire Council invested, was highlighted at last week’s Place Committee meeting at the local authority.

The partnership scheme has come to an end with the final board meeting taking place last week.

Councillors heard how the Wee County local authority, one of three councils to be involved, invested around £107,000 over four years.

In return, it is estimated the equivalent of more than £1.3million of work was delivered in the local area, multiplying that investment by around 13.

SNP Cllr Donald Balsillie, who seconded the paper tabled in the chamber, hailed the numerous benefits IFLI brought to the area, major projects including the creation of a boardwalk and viewing screen at the Black Devon Wetlands with RSPB partners.

The Kennetpans Distillery, a hidden gem now in ruins past Clackmannan that is considered to be the birthplace of modern spirit-making, was also highlighted.

Here, a partnership project with owners and Historic Environment Scotland seen archaeological and scrub clearance before the remaining structure was consolidated.

Cllr Balsillie said IFLI will hopefully become “the genesis of bigger projects to come” with council documents highlighting a legacy scheme will be building on its success.

Conservative Cllr Martha Benny hailed it as “absolutely what we need in Clackmannanshire” adding it was great to see schools involved and jobs being created.

Labour leader Cllr Dave Clark was also supportive, but questioned how IFLI’s success is being marketed.