Port Ellen community building funding boost

A £2.2 million project to create a new community building and better visitor services at Port Ellen on Islay has gained up to £353,808 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

The investment completes the package for the project by South Islay Development (SID), which will support at least three part-time jobs.

As with a number of rural areas across the Highlands and islands, Islay faces challenges in retaining its resident population.

SID was established in 2011 as a charitable company and projects so far have included the creation of pontoons and showers at Port Ellen, in partnership with Port Ellen Harbour Association. SID’s acquisition in 2014 of the Port Ellen Filling Station saved it from closure. The organisation has also co-ordinated a number of community events and activities and is pursuing childcare provision for working parents.

The new community building will be built on a site where the community’s previous, well-used pavilion once stood before it was demolished.

It will be fully accessible and include a multi-function space that can be extended into an adjacent community room.

Three smaller rooms will be available to rent, and a kitchen/ bakery with café will be leased to a third-party operator. The building will include toilets, a plant room and storage space for local sports clubs.

Eight new motorhome pitches will be created alongside existing ones and the project will include a WC block, with shower and laundry facilities. There will be improved waste disposal, recycling facilities and two EV charging points.

Chairman of South Islay Development Patrick McGrann said: “These developments will benefit the local community by providing a much-needed community building to be the centre for local events. The children’s playpark is to be upgraded and the motorhome area will reduce congestion in the village in the tourist season, and our local economy will be enhanced.”