The New Year may at last bring community ownership to the Isle of Rum, Environment Minister Michael Russell announced today.

Mr Russell announced that the Scottish Government was ready to transfer land and assets worth around £250,000 to the community from Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) along with responsibility for the development of these assets.

The transfer of the community hall, village shop and tearoom, campsite and surrounding land will take place after February 2009 providing there is a positive vote from the community. The ballot will be held in early January and the transfer will allow the trust to develop visitor accommodation and designate land for crofting.

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Speaking during a meeting of the Isle of Rum Task Group in Arisaig, Mr Russell said: "In June this year, I announced that the principle of a transfer of land and assets to the Isle of Rum Community Trust had been agreed.

"I am delighted today to announce further progress towards realising the goal of establishing a viable community with a thriving local economy.

"The planned transfer of land and property in Kinloch Village and Glen will provide a platform for development of a thriving and sustainable community. It will create opportunities for local enterprise while improving the facilities and services available to visitors to the island."

Mr Russell commended the Task Group and the Trust for the progress that they have made over this past year. He also honoured the support and commitment of SNH in addition to Lesley Riddoch's contribution as Chair of the Task Group.

Andrew Thin, Chairman of SNH said: "I am delighted we have got to the stage where we are almost ready to transfer land to the Community Trust. So many people have put in so much time and effort into this process and I believe we have the right solution at the right time."

(GK/JM)