Four primary schools in some areas of the Outer Hebrides could shut under plans being considered by the local authority.
Western Isles Council is looking to cut £6m over the next three years – and is even thinking about leasing out part of its headquarters in Stornoway on Lewis.
Included in a paper currently before councillors is a suggestion to close Park, Breasclete and Berneray primary schools, with the children being sent to Sgoil nan Loch.
Tong Primary School would also be closed, with children attending Back and Laxdale Primary Schools.
There is a suggestion to relocate staff in the Benbecula office to other locations, and to lease out the office, and to let half of the Council’s headquarters in Stornoway out for hire too.
There is a view that more use can be made of online schooling, that staffing levels will not be cut, and that the educational facility in Sandwickhill will be closed.
The Council currently employs 1,600 current staff.
A spokesman for the council said: ”All areas of spend are being considered. We have to look at everything, but there are no proposals at this stage.”
Schools closures mooted for islands as council looks to cut £6 million over the next three years
