Search for a large building in south uist.

Discussion: I am searching for a building that would enable art students in south uist to achieve a BA whilst living here on the island, an achievement that i'm sure would give encouragement to many. (the building would long term be put to use for the local community with artists workshops etc)

I am one of a couple of students studying for a BA in Fine Art, the first 2 yrs being available in North Uist at Taigh Chearsabhagh. The final and honours yr is only available thru a distant learning scheme and to fit this criteria we must provide studio space.

The dead line for this is September, so apologise for late request but we have tried unsuccessfully for 2'yrs to find something.

An empty nissen hut or agricultural shed would be fine..

Isn't it a shame that there's a perfect building lying empty in South Uist and indeed has been empty since it was built by HIE. However, the enterprise agency, who say they are committed to helping the economy of South Uist to grow, are charging £19k a year rent for the space! Hardly going to have crowds of businesses racing each other to fill the 'white elephant' near Daliburgh School. What a shame that they'd prefer to remain intransigent about these prohibitive rental costs than just see the building put to some use.

Another building of equal suitability would be the old Uist House in Daliburgh, which I suggested should be used for exactly that purpose over two years ago. It has all the facilities needed for residential students - large kitchen, dining room, bedrooms, rooms that could be used as studio spaces and rooms that could be used as galleries. Perfect! But under offer at the moment as far as I know.

This would be a fantastic opportunity not only for yourself but many young people who currently leave the islands to study. The chance to combine this with local community use, offering workshops is one which i'm sure many people would whole heartedly welcome. In turn this could provide small businesses affordable space to set up and get involved.

If young people do return to the island after completing their studies, they are faced with the difficulty of having to find affordable suitable space to be able to continue with there works. We have so many talented Artists and Craft workers on the islands it is an asset which brings many visitors and substantial income which in turn benifits our local ecomony. I hope you are successfull and wish you all the best in your quest.