A new partnership between Orkney Islands Council and Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks Transmission (SSEN‑T) is breathing life back into long‑empty homes across Mainland Orkney.
The initiative, part of the Orkney‑Caithness Transmission Link Project, offers homeowners financial help to renovate properties that have been lying vacant for at least six months, with the homes then leased at a reduced rate to SSEN‑T management staff working on the project.
Two empty homes have already been successfully restored under the scheme, with more set to follow as the search begins for additional properties that could benefit.
National Records of Scotland figures show that Orkney has one of the highest rates of vacant homes in the country, with around 6.3% of its housing stock currently lying empty, a challenge this scheme hopes to turn into an opportunity.
SSEN‑T is now appealing to homeowners with suitable properties to come forward.
Homes must be on Mainland Orkney, have one or two bedrooms, and be capable of being brought up to a habitable standard by 1 February 2026.
Properties requiring no more than £25,000 in upfront investment will be considered for support.
Through the scheme, SSEN‑T can provide funding of up to £25,000 to carry out renovations, which is then recouped through reduced rental payments during the lease period.
The agreement runs until summer 2028, with rent set at an all‑inclusive rate covering household bills.
While it remains the responsibility of homeowners to maintain their properties, the Council’s Development and Empty Homes Officer is available to offer guidance and advice to those interested in taking part.
Rachael Batty, the Council’s Development and Empty Homes Officer, said the partnership shows what can be achieved when local authorities and industry work together to address housing challenges in rural communities.
Empty homes represent lost opportunities for families and workers alike, she explained, but with the right support, they can quickly be turned back into warm, welcoming spaces.
Homeowners interested in applying are invited to email rachael.batty@orkney.gov.uk with details of their property, including its address, number of bedrooms, expected renovation costs and likely timescales.
This innovative scheme demonstrates how tackling empty homes can provide vital housing, support major infrastructure projects and boost the local economy, all while breathing life back into the heart of Orkney’s communities.
