The residents of Great Bernera are to vote over buying their island.
The island is up for sale by the family of former landlord Count Robin Mirrlees who died in 2012.
The 230-
An informal information session over the proposed buyout is being held between 2pm and 5pm in Bernera hall on Saturday.
Members of the steering group will be available to answer any questions that residents may have.
On Tuesday evening there will be a presentation of the results of the feasibility studies. Dr Calum Macleod (Consultant in Sustainable Rural and Regional Development) will report the findings of his research and on what a buyout would mean as well as the potential areas could be developed.
Henrik Micski (Renewables Consultant with Ecodyn) will report on their findings and look at some potential renewable energy projects for Great Bernera.
Ballot papers are being posted out with a count to take place on 19 March.
All residents over 16 years who are ordinarily resident in Great Bernera and on the electoral roll for the island are eligible to vote.
Tom Macdonald, chairman of the Great Bernera Community Development Trust said: “This is a huge decision for our generation. A yes vote will allow the residents to take control of our own future at no cost to any of the residents.”
Mr Macdonald said being their own landlords would let the community “develop the potential of our island at a pace and intensity suitable to our needs and requirements.”
He added: “It will also secure the island for our young people and give them options for the future.”
He says rejecting the opportunity could hamper development and stall much needed revitalisation projects.
Mr Macdonald said: “A no vote will only lead to uncertainty and the possibility of a landlord who may not be sympathetic to the residents and their wishes.”
Community to vote over island buyout proposal
27 February 2015