The Trust would like to thank everyone who took the time to fill in a questionnaire and/or took part in the telephone surveys- the response was fantastic with around 200 questionnaires returned and 50 or so groups contacted by telephone to discuss what they need the new centre to provide. 

Three local businesses and three charities confirmed their interest in renting regular space in the new centre, with many more expressing an interest in renting on an occasional basis.

Data collected from the questionnaires and telephone surveys shows the greatest need is for offices, training facilities, treatment and interview rooms for hire on a flexible basis (hourly, half-daily and daily lets).

Following the completion of a technical options appraisal for the design and building work and the analysis of the market research responses the recommendation is to develop a new building on the vacant plot and continue to run the 'Island Castaways' charity shop from the former Royal Mail garage during the building works.  Plans to redevelop the site of the former Royal Mail garage will be investigated at a later date (a phase 3 of the project once the new centre is up and running).

What Will the Centre Provide?

• A new, larger retail area for the 'Island Castaways' charity shop, selling refreshments 'to go'
• For hourly/daily hire:
  •      Offices
  •      Treatment/counselling room

  •      Training/seminar room space & facilities

  •      Interview / ‘break out’ room

• Community resource library

• Office for The Community Trust

• Reception services, fax, photocopying, printing facilities and internet and PC access

Next Steps

The design brief has been updated to reflect the decisions following the market research and feasibility stud completion and the architect is now preparing the final designs to be submitted for detailed planning approvals.

Funding for the fees associated with the detailed planning application has been confirmed by Highland and Islands Enterprise, Argyll and Islands Enterprise and further fund-raising work is underway to secure the remaining funds required to pay for the building works and overheads associated with the project development.

If you would also like to help support the project please contact the Project Officer, Siân Scott on Tel: 01688 302851    Phone/Fax : 01688 302990  Email :  sscott@mict.co.uk