Reprieve of Seilebost School offers new hope 19/1/11
The reprieve of Seilebost School could spearhead a revival for the ailing community say campaigners.
The community of West Harris is calling on the Comhairle to back their plans to inject new life into the district, attract fresh blood and create a growing viable community.
There was deep disappointment when the council dismissed the regeneration efforts of the West Harris Trust as simply “aspirational.”
It emerged the Comhairle -
The council ignored the fledging West Harris Trust’s plea to stave off closure of Seilebost Primary for a couple of years to give a chance to their ambitious plans to regenerate the population.
Community activists say pupil numbers could double if not treble as about 20 or so young couples and families relocate into the area in the coming two years.
Seilebost School Parent Council says the reprieve granted by Scottish Education Secretary Mike Russell was greeted with “joy and relief by the pupils, parents, staff and wider community of West Harris.”
Spokesman Gordon Cumming said: “What wonderful news to start a New Year with and just in time for the first anniversary of the West Harris Trust who played a crucial role in the campaign.”
He added: “Now with new hope Seilebost Parent Council and West Harris Trust will pursue their objectives to retain Seilebost as a successful rural school at the heart of its community.
“We understand retaining our school has cost implications, but the building is in good condition and provides an excellent learning environment for our children.”
Mr Cumming stressed: “We believe the continued investment in education at Seilebost will be cost effective in the long term as a quality local school is central to the plans of the West Harris Trust to attract young families and develop the area.
“The school enjoys very strong active support as clearly demonstrated by the recent campaign and the painting of the building by the parents themselves.”
He urges the Comhairle to “reflect upon our individual circumstances and see that there is real potential to reverse the decline in South Harris and will support our future plans.”
Mr Cummin said: “Seilebost Parent Council would like to thank Mike Russell MSP for listening to our arguments and giving Seilebost School more time.
“We would also like to thank Alasdair Allan MSP and the councillors who supported our campaign.
“We are hugely grateful for the support of the West Harris Trust and the many other members of the wider community and former pupils who helped to strengthen our case.”