Supported by cash support from the Lottery and Government grants, various communities have clubbed together to buy the estates and islands on which they live. Recent examples include:

• Gigha: Island acquired for GBP3.5m with support from the Scottish Land Fund
• North Harris: Estate acquired for GBP4.5M in 2003 supported by GBP1.6M from the Scottish Land Fund and GBP400K from Highlands and Islands Enterprise.
• North Harris: Estate and 19th century Amhuinnsuidhe Castle were acquired for GBP4.5M by the local population of 800 in conjunction with businessman Ian Scarr-Hall. The transaction was facilitated by a GBP1.6M grant from the Scottish Land Fund and GBP400K from the Highlands and Islands Enterprise's Community Land Unit.
• Lochinver, Wester Ross: 800 strong community purchased 44,000 acres of the Assynt Estate for GBP2.9M aided by grants from the Scottish Land Fund and other public bodies.
• Isle of Eigg: Heritage Trust focused on 76 strong community acquired the island in 1997 for GBP1.5M.
• South Uist Estates: Islanders have been awarded GBP2.0M of public funds to help acquire the 93,000 acre estate. The transaction includes virtually all of South Uist, Benbecula and Eriskay for a total cost of GBP4.5M.

Explore Scotland's islands and remote communities with catswhiskerstours

posted by Nigel Cole @ 2:33 AM