Work begins on Kerrera community hub

Work has started on roof repairs at Kerrera’s old primary school.

Thanks to fundraising success, islanders are delighted to see a start on transforming the former school into a new community hub.

The Isle of Kerrera Development Trust says it is making great progress with help from experienced Oban company MacCallum Roofing and Roughcasting.

New specialist energy-efficient windows are being manufactured by Scottish Window Solutions based in Helensburgh and it has all been made possible with support from Highlands and Islands Enterprise, which provided £94,000 towards the roof and windows.

This funding also meant the group could buy an extra piece of land behind the building where the new community marquee will be situated.

Further funding of £35,404 from the Community Climate Asset Fund, £15,000 from the William Grant Foundation and an additional £5,000 from the Scottish Land Fund has given the renovation project a real boost.

And special mention also goes to a recent community crowdfunding campaign which raised a total of £7,443 and helped to raise the profile of the project.

Aideen Shields, who is co-ordinating the

Project co-ordinator Aideen Shields and Eric McMurchy, Architect for Kerrera Old School.

project, said: ‘We are thoroughly delighted to finally see the works begin. This first phase of much-needed repairs to the old school building will be hugely important to make it wind and watertight.

‘It really is tremendous progress. The last few months have been hectic organising everything, but it’s been so worth it.

‘We need a community facility more than ever and we’re all looking forward to when we can get together in a warm and welcoming space.’