Group launches plans to lead regeneratation of Castlebay

A newly-developed design shows how a new look for an old - but sound - building on the Isle of Barra can achieve a wonderful transformation for a thriving community hub.
By The Newsroom
Published 21st Feb 2017, 16:56 BST
Updated 1st Mar 2017, 09:36 BST

The building is currently being used by Bùth Bharraigh. Since they moved into this space in late 2013 it has been transformed from an abandoned property to a hive of activity providing important goods and services to local people and visitors to the island.

The community hub is not only important economically but also for volunteering opportunities, reducing social isolation and increasing local skills.

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Towards the end of last year a structural survey was carried out on the building in central Castlebay which was formerly a Scottish Co-operative store. The survey showed that the structure of the building was sound and internally the building was also in a very good condition.

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Bùth Bharraigh have also been working with CP Architects in Oban to come up with a renovation plan for the building. This planning work is being funded by Scottish Land Fund.

So far the community enterprise has brought in more than £260,000 into the local economy from using this building as a shop for local produce and products.