Redeveloping Hebrides People
Thanks to an investment of £8.25 million, the Hebrides People Visitor Centre will be transformed into a world-class heritage, genealogy and cultural destination for the Outer Hebrides. This landmark project represents years of planning, partnership working and community support, and will secure the future of Hebrides People for generations to come.
The redevelopment will create a modern, accessible and welcoming centre where visitors from around the world can discover the people, stories, language and heritage of our islands. Work is now underway, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Hebrides People and the communities it serves.
What is happening during the redevelopment?
Although the Visitor Centre is closed while construction takes place, Hebrides People remains active.
Our Cò Leis Thu? genealogy service will continue throughout the redevelopment period, helping people across the world trace their family connections to the Outer Hebrides. Our online bookshop will also remain open, ensuring access to publications and resources.
Behind the scenes, work will continue on developing new exhibitions, visitor experiences, learning opportunities and community programmes ready for the new centre.
August 2026
The current Visitor Centre closed
September 2026
Contractors moved on site
April 2028
The new centre opens
£8.25 million
Secured for the project
What will the new centre deliver?
The new Hebrides People Visitor Centre will provide:
- Expanded exhibition and interpretation spaces showcasing the rich history and culture of the Outer Hebrides
- Purpose-built facilities to protect and enhance access to our internationally recognised genealogy archives and records
- Improved visitor amenities and accessibility throughout the building
- Dedicated spaces for learning, research and community activities
- Enhanced opportunities to celebrate Gaelic language, culture and heritage
- A high-quality visitor experience designed to welcome local people and visitors from across the world
The archive at the heart of it all brings together Gaelic oral tradition and written records gathered by Bill Lawson over more than 60 years.
Project timeline
January 2022
The Scottish Land Fund awards £239,000 to buy The Old School House and three areas of land in Northton.
Late 2024
Planning permission is granted for the redevelopment.
February 2025
The National Lottery Heritage Fund gives £86,015 in development funding, and two new staff join to sort the archive and build a volunteer team.
August 2026
The current Visitor Centre closes on 20 August, with a community farewell on 28 August. The full £8,254,746 is secured and the building contract is signed.
September 2026
Contractors move on site. The first turf is cut, with our founder Bill Lawson as guest of honour.
2026 to early 2028
Construction and redevelopment works take place, transforming the existing building into a modern heritage destination.
Spring 2028
Final fit-out, exhibitions and visitor experiences are installed.
April 2028
The redeveloped Hebrides People Visitor Centre is scheduled to open its doors to the public.
Project funding partners
The redevelopment has been made possible through support from:
- Islands Growth Deal: £4.34 million
- Regeneration Capital Grant Fund: £1.85 million
- The National Lottery Heritage Fund: £1.21 million
- Highlands and Islands Enterprise: £850,000
Thank you to every funder, and to our shareholders, whose community share offer helped bring the plans this far.
Who is building it
- Main contractor: Lewis Builders
- Design team lead: Tighean Innse Gall
- Architects: Studio Hebrides
- Exhibition design: Bright
News from the build
As works progress, we will share regular updates, photographs and milestones here on our website, allowing you to follow the development from beginning to end.
Be part of it
Volunteers, donations and book sales all help keep Hebrides People going while the centre is closed.
