Lews Castle Grounds regeneration

The Comhairle has agreed to earmark £250,000 towards a £5.5 million major regeneration of the iconic Lews Castle Grounds in Stornoway.

In addition to the proposed funding, the council is investing a significant amount of resources in preparing a bid for nearly £4 million of Heritage Lottery funding for the five year project to restore important historic features, including the formal gardens, improve access, enhance maintenance and provide new facilities to allow people to enjoy the outstanding public park.

A delegation from the Heritage Lottery Fund were visiting the castle grounds on Thursday as part of their assessment of the grant application.

They also toured the £14 million works to rescue the historic Lews Castle by transforming it into a new museum and hotel.

A decision on the lottery grant is expected by July.

New jobs including head gardener and a park ranger are included in the scheme in addition to youth opportunities for apprenticeship training in stone masonry and horticulture.

One proposal is to build a curved foot bridge over the sea in Stornoway’s inner harbour - from Bayhead to near the Boatman’s Tower.

Other upgrades include Woodlands Centre extension and redevelopment, Cuddy Point Boathouse, Matheson Monument and environmental and car-parking improvements.

Other works are to create junior play facilities, adventure play facilities and fitness trails.

Also proposed are way-markers and interpretive signage. Seats and shelters, improved lighting and public art are also planned.

The scenic woodland gardens are categorised as “outstanding” national significance by Historic Scotland and offers popular walks for locals and tourists.

Council earmarks £250,000 for Lews Castle Grounds regeneration

3 May 2015