The Programme for Government states:

 “The innovative Barra and Vatersay Community Campus, including both NHS and Education facilities, will go ahead and we will work with NHS Western Isles, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Scottish Futures Trust to develop a sustainable, jointly funded plan.”

In a recent letter to the First Minister, Cllr Paul Steele, Leader and Malcolm Burr, Chief Executive described the need for a new school and leisure provision for Barra and Vatersay as urgent and emphasised the essential need for early further engagement on the health and social care elements of the project.

Cllr Paul Steele, Leader of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar said:

 “It is hugely welcome that Scottish Government has committed to the delivery of both NHS and Education elements of the Community Campus Project. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has made clear for several years that a partnership project is the best way to deliver improved integrated facilities for Barra and Vatersay. With Scottish Government now fully supporting the Comhairle’s position the Campus Project can move beyond the planning stage and deliver on the promise of improved facilities and services.

“For the people of Barra and Vatersay the confirmation that the campus project will go ahead must now be followed by detail on the process and timescale of delivery. As we move to the next stage of the project it is important that all partners recognise the impact that deteriorating facilities have had and continue to have on individuals living in these communities. I thank both Comhairle Members and officers, and the community of Barra and Vatersay, for their commitment, resilience, determination to engage politically and their role in achieving full Scottish Government support for the project.”