The town of Galashiels has proudly secured its place as one of the top three finalists in the prestigious 2023 Scottish Regeneration Forum (SURF) Awards. This recognition celebrates the community’s exceptional efforts as part of the Vibrant Gala Project, a regeneration initiative led by Energise Galashiels Trust, funded by South of Scotland Enterprise and Scottish Borders Council.
The Vibrant Gala Plan saw a remarkable array of regeneration projects involving various community groups from the town, delivered over the last three years, including supporting new events such as The Heartland Market and the Tangled Fibre Festival, to funding business improvement with the Property and Shopfront Grant Programme. These initiatives, and many others, have helped breathe new life into the town.
Christine Grahame, MSP, recently highlighted Galashiels’ progress as a finalist and its remarkable regeneration journey in the Scottish Parliament, underscoring the dedication and hard work of the community, local organisations, and partner agencies in ensuring the town’s regeneration success.
The judging for the SURF Awards took place mid-October. During that time, three judges visited Galashiels to see first-hand the impact of the Vibrant Gala Project, with the winner announced at the Awards ceremony scheduled to take place in early December.
Commenting on the town’s remarkable journey, Ian Dalgleish, Chair of Energise Galashiels Trust, said, “We are delighted to be named a finalist in the 2023 SURF Awards. The Vibrant Gala Project has been a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision. We look forward to welcoming the judges to our town and showcasing our progress.”
The SURF Awards have been running since 1998 and are an opportunity for regeneration projects of all sizes to show value to funders and partners, support team-building and develop a national profile.
