A total of £330,000 has been awarded by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar for three community projects totalling over £2.3 million.

The funds were given from the fifth-round of the Comhairle's Community Capital Grant Fund (CCGF).

The first project involves Urras Storas An Rubha, who have purchased a school building at Knock, Point, Isle of Lewis from the Comhairle.

Features of the scheme include refurbishing the building, demolishing the portacabins and regenerating the site.

A new community hub will also be created at the site offering services and resources within the Point area.


In addition, the museum at Kildonan, South Uist is extending its gallery space. The museum shop and reception area are to also be redesigned to welcome more visitors.

Finally the Great Bernera Community Development Trust was granted funding for the purchase of the island estate by its community.

The purchase will allow the community to address challenges such as strengthening the region through new business, tourism and increased social/environmental opportunities.

Cllr Alasdair Macleod said: "Communities continue to develop excellent local projects. The three successful applications were from ambitious community groups aspiring to acquire and own land and develop local facilities. In this funding-round the Comhairle has helped to ensure the development of sustainable community businesses and increase the offer to locals and visitors alike."

(LM)