Orkney is set for one of the most ambitious housebuilding programmes in its history as Places for People Scotland (PfP Scotland) and Orkney Islands Council join forces to deliver up to 500 new homes over the next decade.
The landmark agreement marks the first time a national housing association has entered the Orkney market and represents a major step toward addressing the islands’ pressing shortage of available and affordable homes.
Regularly named one of the best places to live in the UK, Orkney’s rising popularity has increased pressure on local housing supply, with many residents struggling to buy or rent within their own communities.
The new partnership aims to tackle that challenge head-on.
Around 60 per cent of the planned homes will be affordable, supporting the Council’s target of building 1,035 homes by 2034 and helping ensure that young people, families and essential workers can stay in Orkney.
PfP Scotland, which manages over 9,000 homes across the country and brings more than half a century of experience, will work closely with the Council and local partners to deliver a mix of social rent, mid-market rent and home ownership options.
The homes will be spread across key development sites, reflecting Orkney’s unique communities and landscapes.
The investment is also expected to boost the local construction sector, creating jobs, developing skills and opening opportunities for island-based contractors and suppliers.
Andrew Usher, Group Managing Director for Regeneration and Development at Places for People, said the partnership goes beyond bricks and mortar.
“We’re proud to be joining forces with Orkney Islands Council to help deliver the quality and mix of homes that local people need and deserve,” he said.
“This partnership is about more than just building houses, it’s about strengthening communities.
“No one should be priced out of the place they call home.”
Councillor Gwenda Shearer, Chair of the Council’s Education, Leisure and Housing Committee, said the scale of the challenge required bold action.
“Lack of available housing is without a doubt the biggest challenge facing Orkney,” she said.
“We are delighted that Places for People Scotland have come on board to support local providers in building more housing in Orkney.
“Building new homes is a critical element of retaining and attracting essential workers and helping young people get on the housing ladder.
“This partnership will provide much-needed strength and capacity to meet our ambitious housing needs.”
The Council’s Local Housing Strategy, Strategic Housing Investment Plan and Housing Need and Demand Assessment have all identified significant long-term requirements, driven by household growth and rapid economic development across the islands.
By combining national expertise with local insight, the partnership aims to meet those needs while supporting the wider island economy and ensuring Orkney continues to thrive.
