Veteran councillor Donnie MacMillan, 89, has helped Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) open its new office in Bowmore on the island of Islay.

The newly re-elected councillor, who has family connections to the island, joined Islay councillor Robin Currie in cutting the ribbon to open the new office in Flora Street, Bowmore accompanied by ACHA tenant Bob Munro.

Argyll Community Housing Association has 368 properties for affordable rent on Islay, Jura, Colonsay and Gigha and the new office will provide an operating base for the six ACHA staff who cover these island communities. The Association also has an active new build housing programme on the island having provided 41 new homes in Bowmore and Port Ellen in the last three years with a further 20 currently on site on the island.

The Association also plans to build four new homes in the village of Keills.

Alastair MacGregor, ACHA’s chief executive, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to develop this new office facility for our tenants and staff in our Southern Hebridean communities. ACHA is active in investing in our existing homes and in building new homes in the Southern Hebrides and this investment is a statement of intent for the future.”

He added: “I am particularly pleased that Councillor Donnie MacMillan has accompanied Councillor Currie, the local authority’s most recent housing convenor, at the opening. His commitment to public service, including serving on ACHA’s Board, is something we value and his support for affordable housing in the communities of Argyll and Bute has been steadfast in the 10 years of ACHA’s existence.”

Councillor Robin Currie said: “I’m very pleased to be involved in the opening of this new ACHA office on Islay which will be a valuable facility for tenants and wish the staff all the best for the future.”

The new office was built by local building contractor Colin Logan from Bowmore which reflected a £70,000 investment.