Protest opposes Skye and Lochalsh hospital plans

People living in the north of Skye oppose a reduction in services at Portree hospital

Hundreds of people gathered in Portree at the weekend to demonstrate against changes to hospital provision for Skye and Lochalsh.

NHS Highland's proposal to build a new hospital in Broadford and turn Portree Hospital into a smaller "spoke" unit has Scottish government approval.

Islanders opposed to the move regard it as a major downgrading of services in the north of Skye.

They want accident and emergency services to remain at Portree.

Doctors at Portree Medical Practice challenged the health board's plans earlier this year.

Health Secretary Shona Robison approved NHS Highland's redesign of hospital provision in February.

The new set-up will serve patients on the island and also Lochalsh on the mainland.

Islanders in the north of the Skye campaigned last year to have Portree developed as the main site.

They said they may seek a judicial review of the consultation process into the site for the new hospital.

NHS Highland has defended the appraisal of options carried out by a steering group.

The Scottish Health Council has also said the process was legitimate.