Minister praises new marina on Barra after courtesy visit
The new marina at Castlebay on Barra has been opened officially.
The facility is situated in the heart of Castlebay and is available for use by visiting yachts to improve access to marine leisure activities, tourism, for the use of the local water sports clubs and residents.
The latest pontoon infrastructure developments completed over the winter have provided 18 new berths, bringing the total number of berths for visiting yachts up to 32. All berths have access to power, fresh water, wifi and waste disposal.
The project will generate significant direct and indirect local spend to support a fragile, remote community and safeguard and generate employment which, in turn, will help strengthen the local economy.
Local government and housing minister Kevin Stewart and Calum Iain MacIver, director of development at Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, visited the Marina on June 15.
Mr Stewart said: ‘I am delighted to see this terrific new facility and hear directly from the community about its importance for local people and the economy.
‘The Scottish Government is determined to improve the lives of local people by placing them at the heart of regenerating their communities and this new marina is just one example of that. Supported by £302,195 from the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund, it will be a fantastic local asset – not only creating additional health and sport opportunities but also providing new economic opportunities to Barra and Vatersay Islands.’
Coimhearsnachd Bharraidh agus Bhatarsaidh (Barra and Vatersay Community) Ltd was delighted to welcome the minister. The capital investment by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar , EMFF and the Scottish Government will enable Barra and Vatersay to play a full and active part in national marine strategy, in particular the ‘string of pearls’ formed by marinas extending from Castlebay in the south through Lochboisdale, Lochmaddy, Scalpay and Tarbert to Stornoway in the north.
Donald Crichton, chairman of sustainable development at the comhairle, added: ‘This is yet another excellent example of community-driven projects in the marine sector. Marine visitor tourism is increasing and Castlebay will be a most welcome addition to facilities throughout the Outer Hebrides with considerable economic spin-offs.’