Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has announced that work on the first phase of the Coastal Path project around Point and Sandwick is underway.

The path will help to open better access and stimulate economic/social activity including new nature, cultural and historical based tourism and in particular out of season tourism as a rural development catalyst. This phase prioritises a new enhanced extension of path and coastal defence past Eaglais Na H-Aoidh towards Aiginis.

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Local Councillor for Sgìre an Rubha and Vice-Chairman of the Comhairle's Policy and Resources Committee, Alasdair Macleod, said: "I am very pleased to see work underway on this community project which will benefit social and economic activity in the Point area. This will greatly enhance Point and it is very encouraging to see the community working together on this exciting development."

When completed the whole path would add an additional optional 40km to the Hebridean Way with benefits for new tourist services, exercise for local people, access to wildlife and is a potential "core" path.

The total project cost is £114,152.20 with 50% coming through LEADER funding. The other 50% is being provided by an early distribution from the Stornoway Trust Community Fund, derived from the income from the Ben Ghrideag Wind Farm.