Highlands and Islands Enterprise has awarded £100,000 to two west Highland community groups to help move forward plans for 32 new affordable rural homes in Applecross and Lochaline.
The funding will support pre construction costs for projects being led by Applecross Community Company and Morvern Community Development Company.
In Applecross, plans are under way for 18 affordable homes along with six business units aimed at supporting local enterprise and keeping the community sustainable.
The area has seen only three affordable homes built in the past 18 years, leaving strong demand for housing that allows younger people and working families to stay.
In Lochaline, Morvern Community Development Company is progressing plans for 14 family homes for rent to meet local need.
Both groups have a track record of delivering major community projects, including hydro schemes, fuel stations, broadband and community hubs.
While housing does not sit directly within HIE’s remit, the agency has recognised the shortage of affordable homes as a significant barrier to economic growth and population retention in rural areas.
Ian Philp, HIE’s head of strengthening communities in Lochaber, Skye and Wester Ross, said:
“It’s well documented that lack of housing is possibly the single biggest constraint to rural population and economic growth.
“That’s why we’ve been working with community groups in rural areas looking to address this.
“Both ACC and MCDC have initiated projects that will go a long way to tackling housing needs in their areas and strengthening the resilience of their communities.
“I’m delighted we’ve been able to provide support and look forward to seeing the developments take shape.”
Gordon Cameron, chair of Applecross Community Company, said:
“Tackling the crisis of the lack of affordable housing in Applecross is a priority for our community.
“The affordable houses that are currently being designed are already three times oversubscribed.
“As a community, we want to offer our younger people the opportunity to stay here and thrive, if they wish to, and housing is a key driver in this respect.
“We must also attract and retain economically active people who can help sustain our vibrant community, local services and businesses while supporting the needs of our aging population.
“We are delighted with the contributions HIE and others have given.”
Angus Robertson, chair of Morvern Community Development Company, said:
“Lochaline is a vibrant, growing, economically active community in West Scotland.
“Affordable housing is a key factor to enable a sustainable community and as such we are excited to be building 14 family homes for rent.
“We are extremely grateful to the financial support and encouragement from HIE in this project.”
For communities across the west Highlands, the projects represent more than bricks and mortar, offering a chance to secure long term stability, protect local services and give the next generation a reason to stay.
