Two ambitious projects to improve sports and community facilities in the Isle of Lewis are set to progress following the confirmation that the final piece of funding is in place.

Western Isles Enterprise (WIE) has just approved funding of £73,625 towards the cost of improvements to the community centre facilities in Barvas, and £32,720 to redevelop the games pitch and community and sports facilities at Seaview Knock in Point.

The projects have received other funding from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (CnES), SportScotland and the Scottish Executive.  Now that funding is in place, the projects can go out to tender.

After several years of planning, Barvas and Brue Community Centre, along with Westside Football and Recreation Club will receive assistance for the refurbishment and extension of the Barvas community hall.  This will include the renovation of existing toilets, provision of disabled facilities and a new efficient heating system.  A new annex wing will also be constructed to provide changing facilities for outdoor activities and a general purpose room for a variety of activities.  This would give the people who live in the area an excellent new base for recreation and leisure.  

The people of the Point area of Lewis will also benefit from WIE assistance.  Point Sports and Recreation Association will receive assistance towards the development of the games pitch at Seaview Knock.  The condition of the pitch has been deteriorating in recent years, preventing regular games and activities.  The site, which is home to Point Football Club, will now benefit from a wide range of improvements, including enhanced changing facilities, toilets and car parking. 

The aspiration of the Point Sports and Recreation Association has been met by a concerted local fundraising effort, securing a contribution of £93,000.  Barvas and Brue Community Centre have also contributed £55,000 towards the costs of the project. 

Norman A Macdonald, WIE head of strengthening communities said:  "These are very ambitious and exciting projects for the local communities. They have done tremendously well to raise such a large amount of money and we are pleased to be able to assist them.  The improvements at the community centres in both Barvas and Point will have such a positive impact by providing better access and facilities for a variety of community organisations, from baby and toddler groups to senior citizens, as well as youth and football clubs."

Meanwhile, WIE has announced it is committing £99,000 over the next three years, to help stage the Hebridean Celtic Festival in Stornoway.

Showcasing traditional and contemporary Celtic music, the event is staged annually over four days in July and is set to bring a range of economic benefits to the island. 

Caroline MacLennan of Hebridean Celtic Festival Trust welcomed the grant.  She said:  "We are delighted to receive this funding from WIE to help stage the festival for the next three years.  The event now brings significant benefits to the area in terms of tourism whilst raising the profile of Celtic music locally and promoting the Hebrides internationally.  WIE's contribution along with funding from our other sponsors and supporters will ensure that the Hebridean Celtic Festival continues to be a top international event."