Pairc residents invited to open meeting tonight

The Trust say this meeting is an opportunity for local people to hear first-hand the Trust’s proposals to purchase additional properties in the Estate, on behalf of the community. The Trust has already purchased the old Care Unit in Gravir, with the intention of using it for affordable housing. The next property under consideration is the Doctor’s House and adjoining GP Surgery in Gravir.

The Trust carried out a Housing Needs Analysis in 2016 which showed that the local community is very supportive of a small development of affordable housing in the Estate, either to rent or to buy.

In addition to this the Trust has been exploring the options for purchasing the Resource Centre in Kershader. If the Trust was to purchase this property it would continue to provide accommodation for the Pairc Playgroup, and offices for Muaitheabhal Community Wind Farm Trust and Pairc Trust. The playgroup accommodation would remain rent-free until the playgroup committee decide that they can afford to pay rent, and how much they can contribute. The Trust also intends to provide a meeting space for community groups and a ‘hot desk’ computer with internet access.

During the discussions with the NHS about the purchase of the Doctor’s House, they expressed an interest in re-locating to the Resource Centre for the long term benefit of the Pairc Surgery. If this were to happen it would be on a long term rental lease, and this income would assist in covering the running costs of the building.

Representatives from NHS Western Isles and the GP Surgery will be present at the meeting.

Pairc Trust is happy to assist anyone who needs transport to and from the meeting. In addition to this they are happy to discuss the proposals in more detail with anyone who cannot attend.

For more information contact [email protected] or telephone 01851 880728.