This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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More affordable housing in Highlands and Islands
14/09/2005
A new initiative to identify land for affordable housing in the Highlands and Islands was announced today.
Under the initiative the Executive, as Scotland's largest crofting landlord, will work with Communities Scotland to define areas where development of affordable housing can take place without compromising crofting interests.
Deputy Rural Development Minister Rhona Brankin said:
"I am committed to working with crofting groups and other agencies to strengthen Scotland's rural communities.
"The demand for retirement or second homes in rural areas is pushing house prices beyond the means of many local people.
"By freeing up suitable land for development whilst avoiding the loss of cultivatable croft land we can deliver affordable, sustainable housing in remote communities."
Scottish Ministers represent the largest crofting landlord in Scotland owning or retaining an interest in 72 estates. These comprise some 1,600 holdings extending to around 104,000 hectares.
- They are administered by Agricultural Staff in the Environment and Rural Affairs Department of the Scottish Executive
- The initiative will map out suitable locations on reserved areas and common grazings and will work alongside crofting interests and local planners to ensure that land is sold for the development of affordable homes
- This work mirrors a Forestry Commission Scotland scheme to use parts of the national forest estate for affordable rural housing