AN update on measures to tackle Argyll and Bute’s housing emergency has shown ‘strong progress’, the region’s local authority has said.
Since the Housing Emergency was declared in June 2023, sustained partnership working has enhanced action across the housing system. This has ranged from boosting new supply to making better use of existing homes.
Planning consent has been granted for 1,640 homes between June 2023 and April 2026; up to £8 million in funding has been secured for key housing initiatives; targeted worker accommodation has been delivered, including 12 new units in Tobermory; and plans for 433 homes in Dunbeg, as well as projects elsewhere in Helensburgh, Islay, Dunoon, and Campbelltown.
Further to this has been more than £2.7 million has been invested through energy efficiency programmes to help households reduce costs and carbon emissions. As well as targeted interventions – such as bringing NHS-owned accommodation back into use – are being used to directly support the delivery of healthcare and other essential services in remote island communities.
Leader of Argyll and Bute Council, councillor Jim Lynch, said, “This update shows the scale of action being taken across Argyll and Bute. From unlocking major development sites to supporting community-led housing, we are making meaningful progress in tackling the housing emergency.
“Housing delivery takes time, but the breadth of activity underway—from early-stage planning through to projects on site—demonstrates a strong and co-ordinated response. We are focused on both short-term impact and long-term change.”
