Funding for redevelopment of Borrodale School on Isle of Skye.

The Scottish Government have awarded The Highland Council £450k from the Vacant & Derelict Land Investment Programme for a project to renovate Borrodale School and School House.

The project aims to develop an innovative solution to the renovation which will provide much needed affordable housing, but which also supports the local community, businesses and minimises the carbon footprint both during construction and in use.

Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans said: “This is exactly the type of project the Vacant & Derelict Land Investment Programme should be supporting. The renovation of this derelict school and school house will create 5 or 6 fuel efficient user-friendly housing unit, in an area where affordable housing is very limited.”

The Council will the administer the funding and the project will be delivered by the Communities Housing Trust Communities Housing Scotland (CHT) working with The Glendale Trust.

The project will be a case study to demonstrate how derelict buildings can be refurbished cost effectively, provide significant benefits to the community and much needed housing.

While undertaking the renovation, under existing building regulations, each stage will be analysed to determine improvements that could make renovations a more attractive and cost-effective option.

Councillor Gowans added: “Improvements identified could include changes to regulations and planning status, project efficiencies, energy management, waste management and reduction in environmental impact.

“I wish everyone involved all the very best as they move forward with this exciting transformation project.”