Planning bid for new Barra adult learning centre

An artist's impression of how the new building will look.

The plans, submitted by Garadh a Bhagh a’Tuath, would see development of a new adult learning centre, a cafe, commercial kitchens, space to sell garden produce and a ‘Changing Places’ toilet facility – the first in the Western Isles specifically designed for use by those with profound and multiple learning disabilities, as well as people with other physical disabilities.

The organisation’s existing Am Bothan building will be converted to an office and potting shed.

Gàradh a’ Bhàgh a’ Tuath is a horticultural-based project that grows and sells local produce whilst helping people with special needs.

The organisation’s facilities and projects are aimed at improving the local environment and providing training and volunteering opportunities, include community gardening and conservation.

The planning bid comes after the organisation was awarded £830k in April 2018 by the National Lottery and the Big Lottery Fund towards the new building, with CalMac, Scottish Government Transport and Hitrans also contributing to the costs of the state-of-the-art Changing Places toilet.