Currie seeks funding plan for island centre

That was the message this week from Arran councillor Charles Currie after the Arran Outdoor Centre was taken off the table as part of planned cuts for the 2025-26 budget.

Councillor Currie said: “I am very much relieved that the centre has been saved but it does very much pose the problem of how do we stop it coming back next year.

“We need a look to see how funding can be skewered to ensure there is a long term future.

“It is not good for the staff who are doing all the planning for next year. The fact it is constantly under threat is demoralising and reduces the efficiency of booking for the future.”

A petition attracted thousands of signatures and helped persuade the council to keep the centre open.

Councillor Currie added: “This is a vital facility, not just on Arran and  people have contacted me to say it is the first time a lot of kids get away on a holiday and an adventure.

“Ordinary kids from all over Ayrshire get to walk up mountains and canoe with highly-skilled staff in a safe and secure situation.

“The council will look at how they can make it more profitable. They are already looking at English school when we are on holiday and they are working. 

“Also they are looking at opening for weekends but that would involve a staffing restructure through it would bring in more money.

“There are people willing to come in and discuss how they can make things better.”

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “We are not in a position to comment until elected members have met to consider the budget 2025-26.”