Canna, one of the Small Isles, is to undergo a number of developments in the near future to attract residents to the island and expand its economy.

The National Trust for Scotland (NTS), who own and manage Canna and Sanday (an adjoining island), has developed forward plans for the islands, in conjunction with the islanders.

The plan for the islands, which have a population of approximately 20, includes renovating two derelict cottages to provide self-catering accommodation, and converting an existing self-catering property to a guest house, which will then attract a family to the island to run it.

The renovation of the two derelict cottages and also the conservation of artefacts known as 'The Canna Collection' are being supported by the local enterprise company, Lochaber Enterprise, with a financial package worth £75,650.

'The Canna Collection' is currently in the possession of Mrs Margaret Fay Shaw, the widow of John Lorne Campbell, who left the island to The National Trust for Scotland on his death.  The collection is based in Canna House, but at the moment is not available for public access.  The project will work to conserve and preserve all the archive material within Canna House.

Pete McHugh, area manager with NTS, said: "We strongly believe the Canna Collection should remain and be cared for on the island for future exhibition and this project will ensure that happens."

The NTS are also investigating the feasibility of replacing the existing footbridge from Canna to Sanday with a vehicular bridge.  The Highland Council have undertaken a feasibility study with a budget of £5,000.

Lochaber Enterprise will provide £2,500 of assistance for the feasibility study with the other £2,500 coming from LEADER+.  LEADER+ is a European Union programme, which seeks to promote economic and community development within rural areas.
  
The island school is on Sanday as is St Edward's Chapel, which has recently been renovated to provide tourism facilities.  One of the main priorities for the development of the islands will be the provision of vehicular access. 

Jacqueline McDonell, acting head of business and community with Lochaber Enterprise said: "These projects will attract more visitors to the islands.  And an increase in visitor trips to the islands will make other existing businesses there more viable.  This is key to the islands future economic prosperity and we are delighted to be able to help."
 
Mr McHugh added: "The ultimate aim of the community development plans for Canna and Sanday is to attract more people to the islands and make the populations sustainable by expanding the economy."