Promises broken over future of Arran outdoor hub, campaigners say
New campaign launched after success in 2023
A reformed campaign group insists promises have been broken regarding the future of the Arran Outdoor Education Centre.
Campaigners from Save Arran Outdoor Education Centre believed they had seen off the threat of closure during a much-published fight with North Ayrshire Council (NAC) in 2023.
Then, the group says, they were given a commitment by a senior councillor the hub was a ‘great asset’ for the island and the wider Ayrshire area and would have a long-term future.
However, campaign backers say they were frustrated to learn the prospect of closing the centre was back on the agenda when North Ayrshire Council held a public consultation ahead of next year’s budget meeting.
It’s forced people like Alistair Hume back into action, and he’s vowed to fight to keep the popular school trip destination alive and well.
He said: “I can’t understand why we are in the frame here, at all.
“The benefits for the community here on Arran and all over, and in particular the young folk who attend these week-long events, it’s life-changing for them.
“They are going to be the losers.”
The decision has sparked widespread anger across Arran and the broader North Ayrshire communities.
They argue that NAC has once again ignored overwhelming evidence that residential outdoor education is not only essential but transformative for children’s development.
Campaigners have condemned the proposal, describing the decision to cut funding for the Centre as an ‘act of vandalism’ against the future of young people and the community it serves.
Ali added: “I feel most for the staff at the centre themselves.
“They’re going into another season unsure if they are going to be operating or not. It really is bad news for them and after speaking to some of them, they are distraught and are unsure if they are going to have a job.
“My message to the council is this; think about the impact it will have in Arran, North Ayrshire and other councils in other parts of the country.”
The £4.5million centre opened on the shores of Lamlash Bay 15 years ago and offers outdoor education as well as activities including sailing, kayaking, climbing and orienteering.
Around 1,200 young people attend every year, mainly primary seven pupils living in the most deprived SIMD 1 and 2 areas of North Ayrshire.
A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “For next year, we anticipate a significant budget gap which will require us to make a number of savings. Unfortunately, that means there will be difficult choices ahead.
“Following our recent Budget engagement, we are currently analysing the feedback we received from residents on a number of our services, including Arran Outdoor Education Centre.
"This feedback will be shared with Elected Members in due course.
“It’s important to stress that no decisions will be taken on the 2025-26 budget until February next year.”
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