Blog by Scotland’s Towns Partnership Chief Officer Kimberley Guthrie: One of the biggest positive differences that people across the country can make for their communities this year is to embrace Scotland Loves Local’s call to action for everyone to think local first.
New year, new opportunities
As we enter 2025, I’m filled with excitement about the opportunities that lie ahead for Scotland’s towns. As everyone returns to work – refreshed and recharged following the festive break – it feels like the ideal moment to reflect on past achievements and look at our goals for the future.
Over the past 12 months, we’ve witnessed inspiring progress in revitalising our town centres. From innovative projects to community-led initiatives, the collective efforts to transform underutilised spaces, support local businesses and strengthen influential partnerships have been remarkable.
But the work is far from over…
Unlocking Potential in 2025
The new year offers a fresh chance to harness the momentum we’ve built and tackle new challenges with creativity and determination.
For Scotland’s Towns Partnership, 2025 represents an opportunity to further deepen our commitment to revitalisation by continuing to invest in our unique assets, supporting vibrant local economies, and prioritising spaces where communities can thrive.
We will determinedly, imaginatively and collaboratively continue our mission to help reimagine our towns as places that not only meet practical needs but also inspire connection, innovation, and pride.
Whether it’s preserving historic landmarks or designing modern, inclusive public areas, there is immense potential to shape our towns into destinations where people want to live, work, and visit.
The Power of Local
Over the past year, the growing focus on localism has been incredibly inspiring. Initiatives like Scotland Loves Local highlight the powerful impact of communities uniting to support local businesses, celebrate their towns, and embrace their distinct identities.
Innovations in the Scotland Loves Local Gift Card have also improved the user experience, contributing to outstanding sales over the Christmas season.
As we progress into 2025, let’s keep this movement alive. By continuing to shop locally, support attractions, services and enterprises of all kinds around us, champion community projects – investing in the people and places that define the places we call home – we can create a stronger, more resilient Scotland.
Learning and Growing Together
At Scotland’s Towns Partnership, we’re dedicated to creating opportunities for collaboration and shared learning.
This year, we’re planning a series of events and initiatives to bring together individuals and organisations who are passionate about the future of our towns.
Stay tuned for event updates on our calendar – these events are spaces to exchange ideas, foster partnerships, and spark action that drives real change in our communities.
Continuous Improvements?
2025 isn’t just about maintaining progress – it’s about building on it. It’s about thinking boldly, working together across every sector in business and society to ensure that we keep Scotland’s communities at the heart of everything we do.
Let’s make 2025 a transformative year for our towns. I encourage you to stay involved, share your ideas, and take advantage of the exciting opportunities to come.
Together, we can ensure that pivotal progress is made in reimagining our towns to let them thrive as dynamic hubs of community, culture, and commerce. Places where people live, work and visit.
Kimberley Guthrie is the Chief Officer of Scotland’s Towns Partnership, the organisation which spearheads Scotland Loves Local. You can read more of her blogs by clicking here.
