A shortage of affordable housing and concerns about young people leaving the Highlands have emerged as major issues during the East Sutherland and Edderton by election campaign.
Scottish Liberal Democrat candidate Eric De Venny says residents across the ward have repeatedly raised concerns about housing costs, limited opportunities and the challenges facing younger generations who want to remain in their communities.
The by election takes place on 25 June and candidates have been canvassing across towns and villages throughout the ward.
According to Mr De Venny, many residents fear that without action to address housing shortages and improve local opportunities, more young people will continue to move away from the area.
He believes the issue goes beyond housing and has wider implications for the long term sustainability of Highland communities.
Eric De Venny said:
“I’ve spoken to local families and young people who are genuinely worried about the future of our communities.
“Residents have told me stories of neighbours, friends and family members leaving the area because there simply aren’t enough affordable homes and local opportunities available.
“That is a real concern for the future of our villages and towns.
“When young people feel they have no choice but to move away, we risk losing the next generation of workers, volunteers, business owners and community leaders.
“We cannot allow that to happen.
“For too long, the SNP Government and the SNP-Independent administration at Highland Council have failed to get to grips with the housing crisis facing the Highlands.
“We need more affordable housing, better opportunities for young people and a clear plan to ensure developments such as the Green Freeport bring real benefits to local communities.
“I want to be a strong voice for keeping young people living and working in East Sutherland and Edderton.”
The concerns were echoed by Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross MP Jamie Stone, who said access to affordable housing remains one of the biggest challenges facing communities across the north.
Jamie Stone said:
“Across Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross, I regularly hear from young people who want to stay in the communities they grew up in but simply cannot find a home they can afford.
“This is one of the biggest challenges facing the Highlands today.
“If we want our communities to thrive, we need to ensure there are affordable homes available for local people and that economic opportunities are created here, not elsewhere.
“Eric understands these challenges because he lives and works in the community.
“He has been listening to residents throughout this campaign and I know he will be a strong champion for East Sutherland and Edderton, fighting to ensure local people get the opportunities they deserve.”
Housing, population decline and access to employment have become recurring themes in discussions about the future of rural Highland communities, with many local leaders warning that attracting and retaining younger residents will be critical in the years ahead.
Voters in East Sutherland and Edderton will go to the polls on 25 June.
