Last week, HHP’s board considered the initial findings and is now reviewing the implications for its future business plan and development plan.

The report is based on a survey that was issued to all island households during the summer and was also open to people wishing to move to the Hebrides. In addition, a series of meetings were held with community groups across the islands to gather information at a very local level.

The report has identified a small level of housing need (around 60 households) where people have not applied to HHP for housing and do not, therefore, feature on its waiting lists.

HHP has said that the board will be looking at whether its current plans need to be changed to take account of this. HHP also continued to urge anyone who needs housing now or in the future to register an application so it can take account of this as it plans future new build developments.

A large proportion of the people who responded to the survey, and who said they aspired to move, wished to own a home. This includes self-build, market purchase and low cost home ownership options.

However, it was also clear that this was not a realistic option at present for many due in part to the rising cost of building and to the increase in house prices. In some areas, it appears that local people are effectively priced out of the market. HHP will also assess the implications of this for the partnership’s future plans.

Iain Macmillan, chair, said: “These are uncertain and challenging times. This report will play a key part as the Board review our forward plans and the role that we can play in addressing the issues facing our islands and our communities. We are committed to working with our partners in meeting the challenges ahead and in ensuring that people have access to the quality housing they need.”