14 Aug 2008
Des Browne today became the first Secretary of State for Scotland to visit Gigha since the island's landmark community buyout in 2002.
Des Browne visited the island during a summer island tour that has also taken in the Western Isles and Arran. He toured the island in the company of Gigha Heritage Trust chairman Willie McSporran and visited the community-owned windfarm, known locally as the 'Three Dancing Ladies' and run by Gigha Renewable Energy Ltd on behalf of the Trust.
The Secretary of State discussed current issues facing the Trust including a number of future direct income-generating projects such as proposals for a fourth wind turbine, and plans for the conversion of derelict steadings at North Druimachro into self-catering holiday accommodation.
Des Browne said:
"I'm very pleased to have been able to visit today and it's been fascinating to see how the community has maintained and built on its success since 2002.
"Community ownership has undoubtedly transformed Gigha and the evidence of the Trust's hard work and vision is clear from the growth in population and in the local economy. But it's important that those of us outside Gigha remember that this is an ongoing project to make this island a sustainable economy. I was interested and encouraged to hear about plans for further income-generating projects and look forward to seeing further progress on my next visit."
He later went on to the famous Achamore Gardens, also owned by the community and which have undergone a three-year restoration programme, and met the Heritage Trust's directors to discuss other challenges facing the community ownership, including both broadband and vehicular access to the island.
Jacqui McLeod, Gigha Heritage Trust Manager said:
"It's been a real morale-boost to the community to
welcome the Secretary of State here today. Community ownership has entailed seven years' hard work and commitment and has not been the easy option, but it was the only option for Gigha. There is always more to do but a visit from someone like the Secretary of State is very reassuring to the community."
The Secretary of State also visited Barra, where he met fishermen's groups and local businesses, and Arran on a two-day visit to the isles.
Media contact:
Clark Dunn, 0131 244 9053 / 07917 084371
Nathaniel Mumford, 0207 270 6875 / 07771 938878
Clark.Dunn@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
Nathaniel.Mumford@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
News Release: «SCO/1385/2008»
www.scotlandoffice.gov.uk