Flannan Isles lightkeepers’ house

A proposal for a community buyout of the Flannan Isles lighthouse keepers’ house is making progress.

Funding has been secured for a feasibility and technical study on the potential purchase and development of An Taigh Mhòr in Breasclete.

The property is strongly associated with the famous tale of the Flannan Isles.

The three lighthouse keepers - Including Donald Macarthur from Breasclete - vanished without trace in December 1900, a mystery which has intrigued many over the past 118 years.

When off duty the keepers lived with their families in the house at Cnoc Mòr in Breasclete.

►Flannan Isles memorial marks mystery of vanished lighthouse keepers

The house is presently owned by Hebridean Housing Partnership.

Community trust - Urras an Taighe Mhòir - has been awarded nearly £18,000 from both the Scottish Land Fund and the Architectural Heritage Fund.

Land fund chairman John Watt said: “While this award may only be the first step of any future community buyout, it shows how a relatively small amount of funding can be of great significance in helping communities begin the process of purchasing a local asset.”

The feasibility study is to be led by a team including Dr Calum Macleod, Duncan MacPherson and Faye Macleod.

Architects Anderson Associates will carry out the technical assessment of the building.

The community body is seeking local feedback as it draws up a plan for the acquisition and development of the iconic building.

►Flannan Isles memorial marks mystery of vanished lighthouse keepers

Step forward for community bid to buy Flannan Isles lightkeepers’ house

6 August 2018