Comhairle nan Eilean Siar PRESS RELEASE 15 May 2001 For Use: Immediately

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Public Local Inquiry - Lingerbay

In response to the Scottish Executive’s announcement today that there will be a public local Inquiry in connection with an appeal against the rejection of a move to reactivate a disputed 36 year-old mineral extraction permission at Lingerbay, Harris, the Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Mr. Alex MacDonald, said:

“The Comhairle’s preference was for written submissions to form the basis of this case. Unfortunately the Scottish Executive does not share this view. The Comhairle will now decide the best course of action in the interests of the people of the Western Isles although obviously we would wish to minimise the costs whilst ensuring the best representation. I note the comments from the Executive that the remit of the Inquiry will not cover the merits or otherwise of the Quarry and that the PLI will not include discussion of any wider planning and environmental issues but will focus on the validity of the permission.

I also note the comments from the Scottish Executive that the Inquiry will be held in the Western Isles and I would urge them to ensure that it is held in Harris so that local people can hear the debate at first hand.”

Ends

Issued by Nigel Scott
Communications Officer