A 12-person liaison group has begun considering issues and priorities for action during the Lochs area of Lewis' period under Initiative at the Edge (Iomairt aig an Oir) designation.

The group, representing local organisations and community councils, was formed following public meetings in North Lochs, Kinloch and South Lochs earlier this year.

Funding of up to £30,000 has been awarded to the group to progress key projects and initiatives.

Western Isles Enterprise, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Communities Scotland and the Crofters Commission have provided assistance in a similar manner to other areas in the Western Isles previously designated Initiative at the Edge.

Initiative at the Edge is a Scottish Executive led programme which brings local agencies and communities together in a manner which empowers the community to identify their needs, required actions and develop projects accordingly. The Lochs area was designated for a period of three years, from April 2004.

Dr Gordon Anderson, chairperson of the Lochs Liaison Group said "The community appraisals completed in 2001 identified a range of opportunities and challenges in the area. In line with these, the liaison group will be paying particular attention to projects relating to employment, housing, social amenities and the environment.

"Some further community consultation will be required to update the community appraisal reports and we hope to facilitate this in part through the early development of a website for the area. The liaison group will work closely with the staff of the Erisort Trust and the North Lochs community support worker to bring forward developments which have been identified as priorities by the local community."

A spokesperson for Western Isles Enterprise said: "The formation of the liaison group was an important step in the Lochs Iomairt aig an Oir process and will be key as a forum for the exchange of experience, ideas, information and best practice.

"The liaison group is composed of 12 volunteers and it is encouraging to see a strong commitment from these individuals to making sure that the whole community makes the most out of their period under Iomairt aig an Oir designation."