Would-be islanders come in search of paradise...on Ulva
350 applicants hoping to join isle community
More than 350 people are interested in living on an island with just five residents.
A drive to attract members to the new community on Ulva, which was the subject of a community buy-out last year, has attracted a last-minute rush of applicants.
The islanders want to boost their numbers and, to help select residents, a survey was set up which finishes at the end of the month.
A first step is to renovate houses to provide homes for two current households and four newcomers. The community is keen on those experienced in construction and forestry, while tourism is also listed as an employment opportunity.
Islanders, represented by North West Mull Community Woodland Company Ltd, secured £4.4 million from the Scottish Land Fund and cash from the Macquarie Group and a crowdfunding campaign to buy the island.
A spokesman for the company said more than 350 expressions of interest to move to the island have so far been registered.
He said: “We’re letting the survey run its full course before reviewing the results but early indications show engagement from people representing a breadth of backgrounds. “The survey is a very important element in unlocking the next stages of the island’s development.
“It will play a critical role in providing evidence of demand and interest in Ulva’s re-population.”