RCF funding supports community centre on the Isle of Lewis
October 28, 2024
A fully refurbished community centre in Carloway, on the Isle of Lewis, has opened its doors thanks in part to funding from The Royal Countryside Fund (RCF).
Run by the Carloway Community Association, the new local hub was developed on the site of the former Carloway School building and was supported with over £1.3 million in funding from several organisations, including £25,000 from the RCF.
The community centre is now home to the village’s only shop, Bùth Chàrlabhaigh, and the RCF’s grant supports the employment of a shop manager for this important community hub.
As well as providing services for tourists, the community centre offers office space and accommodation for local organisations, such as Comann Eachdraidh Chàrlabhaigh (Carloway Historical Society), Urras Oighreachd Chàrlabhaigh (Carloway Estate Trust), the youth club, and Carloway Choir, as well as hosting Gaelic classes, craft fairs and sporting events. The centre also hosts the annual Carloway Agricultural and Heavy Games Show.
The centre was officially opened this summer by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, who joined Iain Macaulay, Lord-Lieutenant of the Western Isles, for a tour of the upgraded facilities. During her visit, The Princes Royal met with several volunteers, local community groups, and Bùth Chàrlabhaigh staff before unveiling a plaque to commemorate the opening of the Community Centre and her visit.
Mairi Steele, Chair of Carloway Community Association, said: “Our community centre has been operating for just over a year, and we’ve been busy with a range of activities and events, bringing that community spirit back to the area. We are delighted that the Princess Royal was able to find the time to visit our centre and give us an opportunity to officially celebrate its opening.
“Since the closure of Carloway School in 2013, the local community has worked very hard to raise funds to transform the site into a sustainable, high-quality, community-owned facility. We’re thankful to have the invaluable support from organisations such as The Royal Countryside Fund who share our vision and values.”
Pippa Fry, Rural Communities Engagement Manager at the RCF, said: “The RCF is one of very few funders focused specifically on rural communities across the UK. Our mission is to empower rural communities to develop community-led solutions that increase their resilience and sustainability.
“Our charity supports projects, such as the Carloway Community Centre, to help rural communities thrive and contribute to a sustainable future for the countryside.”
To find out more about the RCF’s work with rural communities and to see information about upcoming grants, click here.
