Planning application submitted for South Uist project
THE CULTURE and education Cnoc Soilleir Project has reached an important milestone as a full planning application for the building has been submitted to Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.
The project is a joint venture between LLC UHI and Ceòlas in Dalabrog, South Uist – a key community for the revitalisation of the Gàidhlig language in Scotland. Cnoc Soilleir has a significant role in leading this development.
Following extensive consultations, the designs have been developed and are available to view at the Ceòlas offices in Dalabrog and Lìonacleit. Located at Cnoc Soilleir, by the Dalabrog junction, it will establish a state-of-the-art modern building for education, Gàidhlig language, music, dance and cultural heritage in Uist. The building has been designed to meet exemplary energy efficiency standards and minimise running costs and CO2 emissions.
It will contain an auditorium designed for traditional music, as well as recording facilities and studio. Spaces for dance and other sound-proofed teaching spaces will also be included alongside a new home for Ceòlas’ archives and library.
The building has been designed around the college’s needs to deliver its educational programmes.
When the college is closed in the evenings, at weekends and holidays, the building will continue to be used by Ceòlas for its cultural programmes and activities.
The entrance foyer will open up to the heart of the building, complete with peat hearth, and will provide a welcoming space for members of the community and visitors.
This project has been funded by the Scottish Government, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, HIE, CnES and local donations.