Kinellan Building Ltd has completed work to build new 'affordable' housing in the Highlands.

The former disused schoolhouse in Achiltibuie has been redeveloped into two new flats on behalf of the Highlands Small Communities Housing Trust (HSCHT).

The scheme was jointed funded by the Coigach Community Development Company and HSCHT, with support from the Scottish Government, the Nationwide Foundation, The Highland Council and Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

Designed by David Somerville Architects, the property now benefits from improved insulation and a responsive heating system.

The property, which had previously lain empty for five years, is now due to be occupied later this month.

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Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said: "We recognise the challenges of developing affordable housing in remote rural areas and so I'm delighted that the Scottish Government was able to provide funding to this worthwhile project through the Rural Housing Fund. The successful conversion of a former schoolhouse into two homes for affordable rent will make a positive impact on this coastal community in northwestern Scotland."

Lindsay Simpson, Lochaber, Skye and Wester Ross - Development Manager at Highlands & Islands Enterprise, said: "Coigach Community Development Company is the anchor organisation for HIE's Community Capacity Building Programme and we have been working intensively with them for a number of years.

"CCDC's Community Development Plan, written in early 2012, identified housing as one of the main priorities for action. The creation of these two housing units will go a long way in providing valuable affordable accommodation in an area where housing provision is scarce and expensive.  This will encourage young families to remain in the area and could provide key-worker housing."

(LM)