West Harris Estate decline in population halted

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West Harris Trust the community owner of the West Harris Estates purchased from the Scottish Government in January 2010 is pleased to report that the decline in population has been halted. As at today’s date two years from the buyout 16 houses are either being built, at the planning stage or converted from holiday homes to permanent residence. These 16 houses based on current commitments will bring 30 people to the West Side by 2013. In addition the Trust is working with partners to deliver 6 houses for rent, with further developments in the pipeline.

Murdo Mackay Chair of West Harris Trust said;

There has been a marked change in West Harris since the community purchased the estate in 2010; while we can not take credit for all these positive developments I believe that the process of community ownership has crated a new air of optimism.

“It is simply great to see positive news on population and housing coming out of West Harris said David Cameron Chair of Community Land Scotland Similarly, the projected figures for the increased school role more than justifies the decision to keep Seilebost School open.

The beginning of the turnaround in the fortunes of West Harris, after decades of decline, is down to the community taking control of their own future through the purchase of their land. When local people take control, their priorities are all about the community and its long term future, and housing for families to become resident is fundamental to that future. This shows the power of community ownership in economic regeneration, stimulating population growth and providing the basis for a sustainable future.”

By the end of 2015 (the five years requested by West Harris Trust in making their submission to the Comhairle on the consultation on the closure of Shelibost School), we confidently predict that as promised the population of West Harris will have increased significantly. Most importantly the couples already committed have 9 children; by 2015 we hope this number will be significantly increased ensuring a viable future for Seilebost School.

Angus MacNeil MP said;

“I am pleased to support the community owned West Harris Estates and the community of West Harris in their attempts to keep Shelibost School open.

“This is an important time for the community with 16 houses being built or at the planning stage, I feel that every chance should be given for the community to grow and thrive again.

“The primary school at Shelibost is seen as an important part of the community jigsaw; the school is in a very attractive setting, if not the most attractive settings for any primary school in Scotland and would surely be a draw for families returning or indeed families moving for the first time to have their children educated there. Certainly as a former teacher it would be a great school to work in.

“I do hope the community and the SNP Government are successful in keeping Shelibost School open, despite the legal action from the local authority.”

The Trust firmly believes that alongside housing, economic development is essential, in the two years from the buyout ten expressions of interest have been received for business proposals on the West Side. Based on these initial proposals a total of twenty four jobs could be created.

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