Bays of Harris Community Estate Limited has been given £1,082,680 to buy a 10,927-hectare crofting estate from a private seller.

The funding will help address long-standing housing and population issues in a fragile and dispersed community. It is one of six awards announced that will see a total of £2,197,924 go to communities across Scotland.

Voe Community Development Association has received £106,780 in funding to buy the B-listed Sail Loft in Lower Voe, Shetland. The group want to use the funding to provide a heritage centre, low-cost tourist accommodation, café and workshop space.

The Quarter Community Hub in South Lanarkshire has received £93,406 to buy the B-listed Quarter Parish Church. This will provide a base for their community activities.

The Scottish Land Fund is funded by the Scottish Government and delivered in partnership by The National Lottery Community Fund and Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

Gillian Martin, cabinet secretary for climate action and rural affairs, said: “Once again these projects demonstrate the scale and variety of ways the Scottish Land Fund can support communities, whether it is giving islanders greater autonomy, creating a much-needed heritage centre and workshop space or bolstering volunteering opportunities.

“It’s especially welcome to see the Bays of Harris purchase conclude after many years of hard work. It shows that perseverance does pay off, and I wish all the projects the best and look forward to hearing about their progress.”

Euan Galloway, chair at Bays of Harris Community Estate Limited, added: “We are delighted the Scottish Land Fund has approved funding to enable us to complete the purchase of the Bays of Harris Estate. It has taken 14 years to reach this stage.

“We would like to thank the many people and organisations whose support, commitment and hard work have made this achievement possible. We now look forward to completing the purchase of the estate on behalf of the community in the coming months.”