Two and a half years after submitting an application to the Crofting Commission, South West Mull and Iona Development has been granted approval for six new woodland crofts in Tiroran Community Forest.

Even before the purchase of Tiroran Community Forest in November 2015, on behalf of the community, woodland crofts were identified as a key aspiration of local people. A woodland croft is not an easy option but, for those with the resourcefulness and ambition to make one work, it is an amazing opportunity.

SWMID said it has a long list of interested people with outline plans for growing food to sell, developing tree nurseries, keeping chickens, beekeeping, permaculture, creating community spaces, woodturning, a sawmill and willow growing for basketry. All on the site that was once home to a thriving community of up to 100 people at Achonnaill.

Cameron Anson, chair of SWMID, said: “The reintroduction of people to an area of our island previously cleared is, of course of historical significance. But it is also significant for the future of our communities, aligns with Scottish Government aspirations and, we hope, will provide a positive example for others to follow… This is the culmination of years of hard work from our staff team and volunteers, and I cannot thank them enough for their persistence in the face of numerous challenges.

“I am delighted to see that our organisation will deliver on a major community aspiration, and I would like to extend my most heartfelt thanks for the support received from the Woodland Croft Partnership, our fellow development trusts, Mull Community Council, and most of all, from the volunteer members of our Woodland Croft working group and our communities.”