New Rural and Housing Grant Scheme Announced

First Minister John Swinney MSP has announced new plans to develop a Rural and Island Housing Grant Scheme, with an indicative budget of up to £20 million over four years.

Designed to help with costs in rural and island communities, the scheme will enable people, including first-time buyers and families, to own affordable homes in the places they want to live.

Subject to the outcome of the Scottish Parliament election, development of the scheme will take place with rural and housing partners.

Kenneth Gibson MSP commented:

“This new initiative will build on the delivery of over 12,000 affordable homes in rural and island communities between April 2016 and March 2024.

“It will complement existing support for the delivery of rural and island homes through the Affordable Housing Supply Programme and our broader support for low-cost home ownership.

“The Springbank development in Brodick is a project backed by Scottish Ministers with a grant of £70,000 for each of the 34 local authority homes built there – some £2.38 milion!,

“It will also operate alongside the £37 million Rural and Island Housing Fund, which was recently extended to 2028 and is open to organisations to provide low-cost home ownership or homes for social rent.

“The Future Farm Investment Scheme provides capital support to active farmers and crofters for the purchase of equipment to support efficiencies, and nature and climate objectives.

“The Small Producer Pilot Fund supports innovation, strengthens supply chains, and helps small producers the improve their skills and infrastructure.”

ENDS