A look back at ten years in the making of the spòrsnis project was the focus of a presentation by the chairman Calum I Macleod at Lionel School earlier this week. It was also an opportunity to look forward to the expected completion of the centre early in 2006 and address some of the challenges of successfully running the facility once it opens.
Almost ten years to the day since the public meeting resulting in the formation of Ness Sports and Recreation Association, and in the very same classroom in Lionel School, Mr Macleod highlighted the major milestones of the project at the public meeting on Monday evening. He noted that almost everyone on the original committee was still involved and thanked them for the amazing spirit of co-operation and unity throughout the ten years. He recalled the many plans that had been produced and the struggle to raise the funds to provide a facility which would meet the community’s aspirations. He thanked the many bodies which had supported the project and continued to do so.
The first breakthrough in the fundraising came when Sportscotland approved a grant of £500,000 back in 2000. This was followed by a similar commitment from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar. There was generous support from Western Isles Enterprise and substantial European funding along with contributions from Crofters’ Commission, Robertson Trust, Gannochy Trust and the Hugh Fraser Foundation. There were several large private donations and tremendous support for the many local fundraising initiatives which included the launch of fios, a door-to-door collection, sponsored walks, curry nights, ceilidhs, carnival and a grand raffle. Additional funds were secured for the renewable energy elements.A community appraisal was conducted which resulted in 927 individual responses - a return of 85% - and over 30 local organisations sent in letters of support. All these helped to secure commitment from the funders and inform the design of the facility.
Early last year the design team led by Neil Ferguson of the Comhairle’s Technical Services Consultancy finalised the plans and the detailed specification. Tenders were invited from six contractors and of the three that responded the lowest was from Alex Murray Construction.A number of savings had to be introduced to match the funding available. This was achieved without having to reduce the overall size of the building and construction started in June 2004. The design team, including representatives of the spòrsnis committee, continue to monitor progress and have regular meetings with the consultant architect and the contractor.
Mr Macleod then invited questions and comments especially about how to make the best use of the available spaces.In response to one question he confirmed that funding was still required for equipment and furniture. This was expected to cost in the region of £80,000, some of which was already secured. There was a suggestion that the new status of the nearby Loch Stiapabhat as a Local Nature Reserve could benefit the centre through provision of interpretation facilities. Other suggestions included beautician/stylist service, a soft play area and crèche, and youth café space.
It was confirmed that the intention is to have the centre open to the public every day till 10pm. The programme for the day-time let of the main hall will link in with the school timetable with slots for community use each day and all evening. One full time post is expected to be created to manage the centre with a number of part-timers.
Mr Macleod thanked everyone for their contributions. He thanked the design team and many of the Departments of the Council for ongoing excellent support and finally paid special tribute to Carola Bell for her unstinting work. “If it wasn’t for Carola we would certainly not be at this stage with the project today.”
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