November 2022 UPDATE! See a report on BBC Alba here about the completed project here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlLHsOMIzxI&ab_channel=IsleofKerreraDevelopmentTrust

The community on Kerrera have been trying for over 30 years to connect the north end of Kerrera to the south. Identified as a key priority and becoming evermore necessary to enable the north end residents (almost half of our island population) to the lifeline ferry service, we were thoroughly delighted to finally see the North South Road project begin construction! 

     

On Tuesday 3rd August 2021, Stage 1 began and this saw the contruction of 1.75km of forestry grade track, connecting the community in north Kerrera to the centre of the island. This was funded by the Scottish Government Islands Programme, which supports delivery of the National Islands Plan. The work was carried out by A & L McRae for the IKDT took three months to complete.

The IKDT are pleased that we have been able to work in partnership with both local and national government to deliver this project that will be vital to the sustainability of life on the island. Delivery of a connecting track has been essential in addressing some of the fragility of the island community, and encouraging further sustainable development on the island. The project will align with wider island ambitions such as the creation of a new community hub at the Old School.

Until the successful delivery of the North South Road project, Kerrera was an island of two halves. With no connecting road between the north and south, the communities had to split their assets and population. The disparity that prevailed, with half the population having access to the lifeline ferry service and the other half left to their own devices, was not sustainable or fair. It was clear for long term economic viability, island resilience and community cohesion, we needed a connecting road.

While the need for a road has long been recognised, the major challenge was to identify who should be responsible for funding and delivering the project. After many years of persistence and many volunteer hours, the IKDT successfully lobbied the Scottish Government Islands Team and Argyll and Bute Council for funding and in 2022 we delivered the project ourselves.

Perhaps the biggest benefit from the road project is that it gives the whole community unfettered access to the main lifeline ferry service. The Isle of Kerrera Development Trust is very proud to have successfully delivered this project.

     

     

Get In Touch

Please use the email address below to contact the Isle of Kerrera Development Trust. For all other contact details please see the Directory page.