Uist plane service saved

Controversial proposals to abolish the three-day inter-island air service for Benbecula as well as close schools in Uist and Barra sparked anger when revealed by Hebrides News.

The council later agreed to withdraw both plans.

There was "broad consensus" that axing the plane service and shutting two primary schools should be "excluded" from cuts.

Eoligarry School in Barra and Iochdar School in South Uist had been proposed for potential closure from August 2017.

Now the council is looking to introduce shared headships for both pairs of schools as a money-saving idea.

Axing the subsidy for the three-day a week Benbecula to Stornoway air service would have saved £264,000.

A report put to councillors today highlighted the impact: "If the service was withdrawn completely, it would be more difficult to travel to and from Benbecula, particularly in winter using the Sound of Harris ferry service which can be affected by adverse weather and low tide restrictions.

"This would have a direct impact on all existing users, particularly passengers travelling to Stornoway for hospital appointments."

Comhairle withdraws controversial Uist and Barra cuts' proposals

13 January 2016