Stornoway Abattoir Faces Uncertain Future Amid Challenges
Stornoway Abattoir Faces Uncertain Future – June 2025
The Stornoway abattoir future June 2025 remains unclear as falling usage and rising costs challenge the viability of the facility. Operated by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, it is the UK’s only local authority-run abattoir.
Declining Use and Rising Costs
The abattoir fell short of its £184,000 income target last year. At a recent transport and infrastructure committee meeting, Lochs councillor Angus Morrison warned crofters to make greater use of the facility. He said bluntly: “It is either use it or lose it.”
Slaughter fees are due to increase by 5%, pushing the cost of processing a sheep to around £44. Morrison stressed that the price rise is necessary for long-term sustainability.
However, officials also reported that some crofters are slaughtering livestock at home, bypassing the site. A wider decline in sheep numbers across the Western Isles is also reducing throughput.
Local Concerns
Councillor Donald Crichton noted that bureaucratic hurdles are discouraging crofters from expanding flocks. This adds further pressure on the abattoir. Last year, the council provided £50,000 from Crown Estate funding to keep the facility running. It also delayed the seasonal opening to save an additional £14,000.
Market Outlook
The future of the Stornoway abattoir now depends heavily on community support. Local leaders argue that without greater use from crofters, the abattoir risks closure. For rural communities in the Outer Hebrides, that could mean losing a vital local service.
In summary, the Stornoway abattoir future June 2025 update shows an industry under pressure. Costs are rising, numbers are falling, and survival depends on increased support from crofters and farmers.
Source: BBC News.
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