Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has announced a £100,000 investment to support pre-construction costs for affordable housing developments in the west Highlands.

The funding has been awarded to two community anchor organisations, the Applecross Community Company (ACC) and the Morvern Community Development Company (MCDC), which together aim to create 32 new homes.

ACC is working to deliver 18 affordable homes in Applecross, alongside six business units designed to support the local economy. This project addresses a critical shortage in the area, where only three affordable homes have been built in the last 18 years. ACC has a proven track record of local delivery, including a hydro-electric scheme, community broadband, and the refurbishment of the local fuel station.

In Lochaline, MCDC will use its share of the funding to progress plans for 14 houses to meet local demand. The organisation has previously delivered three affordable homes and successfully developed a community hub, a marina, a hydro scheme, and the operation of the local fuel station.

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While housing typically falls outside of HIE's primary remit, the agency has stepped in to provide pre-construction support, recognising that a lack of affordable property is a major barrier to economic growth, talent retention, and population stability in rural areas.

Ian Philp, HIE's head of strengthening communities in Lochaber Skye and Wester Ross, said: "It's well documented that lack of housing is possibly the single biggest constraint to rural population and economic growth. That's why we've been working with community groups in rural areas looking to address this. Both ACC and MCDC have initiated projects that will go a long way to tackling housing needs in their areas and strengthening the resilience of their communities. I'm delighted we've been able to provide support and look forward to seeing the developments take shape."

Gordon Cameron, Chair of Applecross Community Company, said: "Tackling the crisis of the lack of affordable housing in Applecross is a priority for our community. The affordable houses that are currently being designed are already three times oversubscribed. As a community, we want to offer our younger people the opportunity to stay here and thrive, if they wish to, and housing is a key driver in this respect.

"We must also attract and retain economically active people who can help sustain our vibrant community, local services and businesses while supporting the needs of our aging population. We are delighted with the contributions HIE and others have given."

Angus Robertson, Chair of Morvern Community Development Company, said: "Lochaline is a vibrant, growing, economically active community in West Scotland. Affordable housing is a key factor to enable a sustainable community and as such we are excited to be building 14 family homes for rent. We are extremely grateful to the financial support and encouragement from HIE in this project."