Community asset transfers approved for Raasay Ferry Terminal

The Highland Council’s Skye and Raasay Area Committee yesterday (Monday 30 August 2021) approved a Community Asset Transfer (CAT) request from the Raasay Development Trust to lease Raasay Ferry Terminal.

Skye and Raasay Area Committee Chair, Cllr John Gordon said: “Tourism is vital for the economic recovery of Highland businesses from the coronavirus pandemic. The plans the Raasay Development Trust have for the ferry terminal will lead to improved facilities for the community and their overall plans will boost tourism within the area.  I therefore warmly welcome the decision to agree this  community asset transfer request  Members of the committee are confident that the Raasay Ferry Terminal will contribute greatly to the Council’s key strategic priorities which aims to encourage community led and run services involving more people in local decision making.”

The agreed community asset transfer to the Raasay Development Trust, for a 99 year lease, will allow the group to continue to develop their plans as part of a wider community venture to develop pontoon facilities in order to boost marine tourism, increase visitor numbers, employment and income to local businesses. 

The transfer focuses on the transfer of the ferry terminal building including waiting rooms and toilets.  The trust aims to redevelop the terminal building, providing disabled facilities, redevelop the toilets and shows, a renewed waiting room with provision of a laundrette, electrical hook-ups and waste disposal. 

Community Asset Transfer requests can be made under the Community Empowerment Act and the application approved by Highland Councillors are subject to terms of transfer.

Details on community asset transfers in Highland and how to apply for them can be found on the council’s website at: highland.gov.uk/cat or please email cat@highland.gov.uk