McLeod to lead debate on Mull of Galloway buyout

 

Dr McLeod tabled the motion, which has gained cross-party support, following the overwhelming backing of the community for the buyout proposal. Dr McLeod also officiated at the counting of the community ballots at the beginning of March. Members of the Mull of Galloway Trust will be in Parliament to hear the debate.

 

Dr McLeod commented:

 

“I am delighted that my motion in support of the community buyout of the Mull of Galloway has gained cross-party support and will be debated next week. A little bit of history was made when the Kirkmaiden community voted so decisively in favour of community ownership of this iconic site and I’m really pleased that members of the buyout team will be in Parliament next week to listen to the debate

 

“The Mull of Galloway is by definition totally unique, and a great deal of work has been done over the past twelve years to create a high quality visitor attraction which has been of considerable benefit to the local economy.

  

“In fact, given the track record of the South Rhins Community Development Trust in helping to develop the Mull of Galloway as a tourist destination, I am not really surprised at the level of support. The new Mull of Galloway Trust will be building on firm foundations and I think there is something right about the community owning the most southerly point in Scotland.

 

Next week I want to showcase in Parliament the hard work that is being done by the community to turn the buyout proposal into a reality and create a sustainable community-owned visitor attraction for the future.”

 

Steve Hardy, Vice Chair of the South Rhins Community Development Trust and the current company secretary of the Mull of Galloway Trust said:

 

“The South Rhins Community Development Trust has been in existence for 13 years promoting tourism on the South Rhins, particularly the Mull of Galloway. Over the years we have seen a transformation from what was a second rate visitor attraction to what is now one of the premier attractions in SW Scotland.  

 

“The Trust is run by volunteer Directors and without them and their hard work over the years we would not be in the position that we are in now. If our application to purchase the Mull of Galloway lighthouse is successful then it will ensure that it remains in community ownership so preserving this iconic site for the enjoyment of visitors for years to come.   

 

“We are most grateful to Dr Aileen McLeod for her support of the Trust and what we are trying to achieve at the Mull of Galloway and we are looking forward to hearing the debate in Parliament.”