A once-in-a-generation opportunity: the first affordable homes in 20 years will address long-term housing needs and help the island thrive into the future. The Inner Hebridean island of 125 people faced the dilemma of an increasing number of holiday and second homes, fewer available homes for residents and pressure on island services. In response, the Colonsay Community Development Company (CCDC), with support from the Communities Housing Trust, is leading a much-needed project to provide homes and new business opportunities.
The first phase of nine new affordable homes just outside Scalasaig and close to the ferry terminal is expected to be completed in autumn 2023. The properties will be allocated according to island priorities and will be a mix of affordable rent and shared ownership, as well as discounted self-build plots. A second phase of further affordable housing is planned by CCDC. The development also includes several homes for Mowi staff, which will be returned to the community when they're no longer needed. Nearby, two new community-owned commercial units will be built to provide workshop or studio space for existing businesses to grow or new ones to start up.
Priority will be given to people who live on the island or have a local connection through work or family, to encourage the continued sustainability of the island communities. Off-islanders with specific skills who wish to live and work in Colonsay and contribute to island life are also encouraged to apply.
The Rural Housing Burden will be applied to self-build plots, giving full ownership and applying a discount percentage in perpetuity, protecting ongoing affordability for the local community. Dannie Onn, Director of CCDC, said: "On behalf of the Colonsay community, CCDC is looking forward to housing our homeless and welcoming new people and families to this beautiful island. We hope they will be part of a new impetus to build work and life opportunities here as part of a sustainable community. It has taken a while to get here, but the legal and financial incentives put in place by the Scottish Government to encourage sustainable, self-sustaining communities on Scotland's islands seem to be paying off in Colonsay."