Nearly £1 million is being invested in Lismore, Tiree and Mull to support affordable housing, crofting, jobs and the long term future of island communities.

Three projects have secured support from the Scottish Government’s Islands Programme, with funding going towards new homes on Lismore, a permanent veterinary facility on Tiree and a marine enterprise hub on Mull.

The Islands Programme supports capital projects on inhabited islands across Scotland, with retaining and growing island populations at the heart of the fund.

On Lismore, £272,506 has been awarded to Lismore Community Trust for its Achnacroish Affordable Homes project.

Two community owned, energy efficient three bedroom homes will be built within the Achnacroish settlement, providing affordable rental accommodation for families who want to remain on or make their lives on the island.

The homes will sit within walking distance of Lismore Primary School and the ferry to Oban, with seafront gardens and completion anticipated in July 2027.

The award is conditional on Lismore Community Trust successfully securing its application to the Rural and Islands Housing Fund.

Tiree Rural Development has secured £302,949 for a permanent veterinary facility designed to support an island where traditional crofting remains important to both the economy and way of life.

A disused section of the Tiree Rural Centre will be converted into permanent veterinary surgery premises, with completion expected in May 2027.

For an island crofting community, access to veterinary services is not simply another local facility, but part of the infrastructure required to keep livestock, businesses and crofts operating.

The largest award will see South West Mull and Iona Development receive £345,500 to transform Bendoran from a boatyard into a year round Marine Enterprise Hub.

Three prefabricated units will create more than 100 square metres of space for businesses, training, community activity and marine services.

Plans include a retail unit showcasing local and marine products, shared workspace and a Marine Engagement Centre offering training and opportunities for community and visitor activities.

A boathouse and marine support unit will provide facilities for maintenance work, while the wider development is intended to create opportunities for local jobs, skills and enterprise.

Completion of the Bendoran project is anticipated in August 2027.

Argyll and Bute Council Leader Councillor Jim Lynch said:

“I’m delighted we’ve been successful once again in securing a substantial amount of funding for island communities.

“The creativity the projects have shown in identifying and solving issues that will make a practical difference within their communities is exemplary.

“The projects are very different but will all have a significant impact on supporting the population.

“I look forward to seeing them develop.”

The three projects are different, but the problems they address go to the heart of sustaining island life.

Affordable homes give families somewhere to build their future, veterinary services help crofting remain viable, and space for businesses and skills creates opportunities for people to earn a living without having to leave their island to find one.