The final contenders in the search to find Scotland’s Town of the Year have been announced.
Communities from across the country were put forward for the honour as part of the 2025 Scotland Loves Local Awards.
From those nominated, three have been shortlisted. They are:
- Blairgowrie & Rattray (Perth & Kinross)
- Newton Stewart (Dumfries & Galloway)
- Paisley (Renfrewshire)
Last year’s first Scotland Loves Local Town of the Year Award was presented to Oban, Argyll and Bute.
Projects in three other places, meanwhile, have been shortlisted in the Most Enterprising Community category. They are:
- Glenuig Community Inn (Glenuig, Highland)
- Ochiltree Community Hub (Ochiltree, East Ayrshire)
- Peterhead Area Community Trust (Peterhead, Aberdeenshire)
Winners of these awards – alongside those for Place Leader of the Year and regional High Street Hero accolades – will be announced next month (October).
Organised by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP), the Scotland Loves Local Awards recognise and reward all that’s great about the nation’s towns and neighbourhoods and the work to ensure they become stronger and more sustainable.
STP Chief Officer Kimberley Guthrie said: “As part of Scotland Loves Local we are celebrating the fact that people make places. The high standard of nominations received for this year’s Scotland Loves Local Awards stand testament to that.
“They showcase the innovation, collaboration and determination which is shaping a better future for communities across Scotland.
“Well done to all of the places and projects shortlisted – and all of the people involved. Each of them has a great story to tell about local action improving local lives.”
Spearheaded by STP and supported by the Scottish Government, Scotland Loves Local is the movement encouraging people to create a better future for their community by choosing local. This is the fifth year in which the awards have been held.
