SUPPORT FOR COMMUNITY BUY-OUTS AS COMHAIRLE INVESTIGATES MOVES TO SIEZE PROFITS

The Vice-Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has stressed the support of the Comhairle for community buy-outs. His comments come in the light of moves by some landowners to set up arms length companies which would aim to keep the rents and royalties from renewable energy developments.

Cllr Angus Campbell said: “The Comhairle has supported every community buy out in the Western Isles, either by providing professional assistance free of charge or with direct financial assistance. We continue to support agreed community buy-outs. This issue is of increasing importance as communities see the benefits that may be realised from windfarm developments. I must say I find it disappointing that current landowners are trying to set up companies that could possibly retain rents and royalties from developers. I have asked that the Comhairle’s lawyers investigate the legalities of this and for a report to be brought to the Comhairle. In my view the interests of communities, landowners and tenants would be best served by friendly buyouts which would put communities in the best position to negotiate with developers.
I have also asked our officers to investigate the designation of the Barvas moor and the possibility of having it altered or at least the boundaries moved which could assist in putting the needs of people more to the fore than the needs of peatland.”

Nigel Scott
Communications Officer
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk