Outer Hebrides Economic Strategy 2025 - 2035 (Draft)

We asked

We asked for views on the Draft Outer Hebrides Economic Strategy 2025-2035

You Said

A total of 11 consultation responses were received. Respondents were in broad agreement of the vision and of the strategy. However, when looking at the detail, there was a broad split between those who were broadly supportive of the detail of the strategy, and a number who expressed concerns regarding the focus on renewable energy. The table below report summarises the feedback received and how this has been addressed.

A report on the consultation responses and how these were considered in the final version was outlined to Sustainable Development Committee in April 2025 when approval was sought of the final version of the Economic Strategy – full report available here.
 

We Did

The strategy was reviewed to ensure a sufficient balance between community owned and commercial renewable energy, and to ensure no assumptions in place around any specific onshore or offshore proposals proceeding.

We Did not do

Removal of references to specific projects and sectors (energy, cruise tourism, Arnish) as these are areas of current economic activity and recognised as potential growth areas. 

Overview

The Draft Outer Hebrides Economic Strategy 2025-35 sets out a vision for an Outer Hebrides which is thriving, prosperous and sustainable. It sets out how the Comhairle will prioritise its focus and resourcing in relation to economic development over the coming decade by identifying measures of success, and priority areas for activity across three key themes: Key Sectors, People and Place, and Infrastructure.

Why we are consulting

Consultation is being carried out to inform the final version of the strategy. To support this, it would be helpful if feedback could be framed in relation to the following areas:

  • Do you support the vision of what a successful Outer Hebrides will look like by 2035?
    • If not, what would you include / remove from this vision, and why?
  • Do you agree with the areas highlighted in the area SWOT analysis?
    • If not, what would you add or remove from this, and why?
  • Do you agree with the three themes of the strategy?
    • Key Sectors, People and Place, and Infrastructure?
    • If not, what themes would you include or remove, and why?
  • Do you agree with the priority areas and associated actions in the strategy?
    • If not, what priority areas / actions should be added or removed, and why?
What happens Next

Comments received will be reviewed and taken into account when developing the final version. The final version will be presented to the Comhairle for approval in May 2025.

Start Date
Wednesday, 12 February 2025 (9:00AM)
End Date
Thursday, 13 March 2025 (5:00PM)

Equalities Monitoring

Please complete the Equalities Monitoring Form

This is used by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar to provide essential statistical information about who participates in our consultations. The data is managed confidentially, is not personally attributable, and is processed in accordance with the Data Protection Act.