Western Isles affordable homes launch

THE THIRD phase of an affordable housing development by the Hebridean Housing Partnership (HHP) has been opened on the Iile of Lewis.

Housing and local government minister Kevin Stewart visited Sandwick, Lewis, on July 10 to launch Mackenzie Lane.

It is the third stage of the Mackenzie Park housing complex on Melbost Farm, and comprises 24 new homes.

The development brings the total number of homes completed to 81, 51 of which are now for affordable rent.

Mr Stewart was joined by HHP chief executive Dena Macleod, HHP vice chairman (Community) Calum Mackay, and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar chief executive Malcolm Burr, who talked to tenants from one of the properties on the development.

Speaking at the opening, Mr Stewart said: ‘Everyone in Scotland should have a safe and warm place to call home and I’m delighted our investment has helped to make affordable housing a reality at Mackenzie Park, Sandwick.

‘This development represents a significant investment and increase in housing for the Western Isles, with the provision of 131 homes on completion of the final phase and Scottish Government grant funding totalling £9.4 million. It has also made a positive impact on the local community through creating jobs and is a great example of how partnership working can deliver high quality homes to suit the needs of people and families, allowing them to remain within their communities.’

The final phase of the project is under way and expected to be completed by 2019.

Last month it was announced that the Western Isles will receive £25million worth of investment for affordable housing over the next three years.

Alasdair Allan, Na h-Eileanan an Iar MSP, welcomed the opening.

He said increasing the supply of affordable homes in the Western Isles will ‘play a vital role’ in helping to tackle poverty and inequality in the Isles, adding: ‘I am delighted with the progress that has been made at MacKenzie Park and that the latest phase has been completed.

‘This represents a significant increase in the housing stock for Stornoway – the area where demand for affordable housing is highest.

‘This follows last month’s announcement that the Western Isles will receive £ 25 million worth of investment for affordable housing over the next three years which will help contribute to the Scottish Government’s national target of 50,000 new affordable homes by 2021.’