Stornoway Regeneration

Lews Castle Regeneration Proposals

The Comhairle is seeking comments on proposals for the regeneration of Lews Castle. This historic Category A Listed building is owned by the Comhairle and has been vacant for over a decade. Finding an economically viable use for the Castle is essential to securing its future and is one of the Comhairle’s Key Tasks.

A wide ranging feasibility study has concluded that the Castle should be repaired and adapted to provide a new and enhanced Museum nan Eilean along with a high quality hotel with function spaces. The mix of public and commercial use is crucial to the viability of the overall scheme.

The feasibility study was undertaken by consultants Austin- Smith: Lord and Tourism Resources Company and was overseen by the Lews Castle Trust, a partnership body involving the Comhairle, Stornoway Trust, Lews Castle College, Western Isles Enterprise and Scottish Natural Heritage.

The consultants undertook extensive consultations with wide range of organisations, businesses and individuals, both locally and further afield. The Steering Group would like to thank all those who contributed to the study.

Commenting on the proposals, Norman L Macdonald, Chairman of the Steering Group said:

‘These proposals represent an exciting and realistic chance – maybe a last chance – to rescue the Castle and bring it back to life. We have an opportunity here that could transform the Castle and its grounds into a first-class destination, to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.’

The total cost of the scheme at 2006 prices is estimated at around £7.5 million. The anticipated public funding partners are Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Historic Scotland, Heritage Lottery Fund, the HIE Network and the EU through ERDF grant. Subject to securing the necessary funding, planning and listed building consents, repair and construction work could start in 2008.

For a summary of the proposals and images of the preliminary designs please view or download the Consultation Document on this page. More detailed background information is contained in the Feasibility Study Stage B Report. If you would prefer a hard copy of these documents please contact Marianne Macritchie at the address below.

There is a display of the proposals in Museum nan Eilean (open Monday to Saturday 10.00am – 5.30pm) and in the Stornoway Historical Society premises in Stornoway Town Hall (open Monday – Saturday 11am – 4pm) until 31 August 2006.

You are invited to comment on the proposals, preferably using the attached questionnaire (Word or pdf), by 31 August 2006. Please send comments to:

Marianne Macritchie
Project Administrator - Lews Castle Trust
Department for Sustainable Communities
Council Offices
Stornoway
Isle of Lewis
HS1 2BW

Tel: 01851 709248
Email: marianne.macritchie@cne-siar.gov.uk