A feasibility study to examine the pros and cons of a community buyout of the Carloway Estate on Lewis has been commissioned.

The community-elected Carloway Estate Trust Steering Group has been awarded a grant of £15,000 to hire a consultant to examine the possible takeover of the 11,400-acre estate on the eastern shores of Loch Roag.

The Big Lottery Fund is providing £10,000 while Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has approved £5000.

Meanwhile, a study by Atmos Consulting will examine suitable sites for renewable energy schemes to create revenue after a buyout. The research was given £10,000 by Outer Hebrides Community Energy Fund, Community Energy Scotland, HIE, and Leader Innse Gall.

Fewer than 1000 people live on the estate.