Up to 100 affordable homes will be delivered in island communities through a new £5 million fund.

Speaking during a Scottish Parliament debate on housing yesterday, housing minister Kevin Stewart revealed that the Scottish Government will establish a new Islands Housing Fund - backed by up to £5m funding over three years - to increase the availability of affordable housing in the islands.

This investment is in addition to the £25m Rural Housing Fund which is supporting the building of new homes and refurbishment of existing properties in rural areas.

Mr Stewart said: “Scotland’s islands have rich and vibrant cultures and make a huge contribution to Scottish life but we know people living there can face challenges when it comes to accessing the home they want.

“Our new £5m Island Housing Fund will increase the supply of good quality affordable housing which is an essential part of attracting and retaining people in our islands.

“Investment in this support for the islands and through the Rural Housing Fund will help us deliver at least 50,000 affordable homes over the lifetime of this Parliament and ensure we are reaching across all of Scotland in our ambitions.

“Our Island Housing Fund demonstrates our strong and continued support for our islands, with the forthcoming Islands Bill set to provide lasting benefits for these communities for generations to come.”