Local control over Sound of Barra 21/2/13
Island body, Voluntary Action Barra and Vatersay (VABV), has been appointed to take the Special Area of Conservation (SAC) in the Sound of Barra under local control.
It is the first time that a local people have been given a direct say in the management of such a protected area.
The much hated legal designation over the sea strait between Barra and South Uist was fought in a long running campaign amid fears it would hit development, affect jobs and restrict fishing in a community which heavily relies on the marine environment for much of its fragile economy.
The bitter dispute has created a huge breakdown of trust between the community and Scottish Natural Heritage.
Now, islanders expect the forthcoming community management group to minimise any impact on people’s livelihoods.
Environment Minister Paul Wheelhouse said: “The Sound of Barra SAC is a diverse and precious environment, home to important seal populations with reefs and sandbanks that support many species.
“I have previously said a community-
VABV Development Manager Eoin MacNeil said: “Voluntary Action Barra and Vatersay is delighted to facilitate this piece of work on behalf of our island communities. The Sound of Barra is a truly rich environment and it is vital that the community are central to leading and managing this great resource, recognising and building on all it has to offer.”
Councillor Donald Manford said: "Since the last century our community has been striving to stem the relentless loss of influence over the environment and resources around our shores. We have for the first time an exciting opportunity to create a structure which will empower the people who work here to actively manage our resources."