Funding has been secured for Lismore Community Trust, Tiree Rural Development (TRD) and South West Mull and Iona Development (SWMID) to deliver affordable housing, strengthen crofting services and create new enterprise space aimed at sustaining and growing island populations.

The Islands Programme is a competitive capital fund, administered by Scottish Futures Trust on behalf of the Scottish Government, for projects on inhabited islands in 2026/27 that help retain and attract residents.

Lismore Community Trust has been awarded £272,506 for the Achnacroish Affordable Homes scheme, which will provide two community-owned, energy-efficient family rentals to help two families remain on the island. The three-bedroom semi-detached homes, in the Achnacroish settlement, will be within walking distance of Lismore Primary School and the ferry to Oban, with south-east-facing seafront gardens. Completion is anticipated in July 2027. The award is conditional on the Trust's application to the Rural and Islands Housing Fund (RIHF) being successful.

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TRD will receive £302,949 for its Sustaining Tiree's Crofting Community project, establishing a permanent veterinary surgery by converting a disused section of the Tiree Rural Centre. With crofting central to Tiree's population and culture, reliable vet services are essential. Works are expected to complete by May 2027.

SWMID has secured £345,500 to convert Bendoran from a boatyard into a year-round Marine Hub, supporting local jobs, skills, enterprise and community use, and offering a stronger welcome for visitors arriving by sea or road. The project aims to finish in August 2027.

The Bendoran Marine Enterprise Hub will comprise three high-quality prefabricated units, creating more than 100 sqm of space. It will include a retail unit showcasing local and marine products; a multiuse building with shared workspace and a Marine Engagement Centre for training, community activities and visitor engagement; and a boathouse/marine support unit for maintenance.

Argyll and Bute Council Leader, Councillor Jim Lynch, said: "I'm delighted we've been successful once again in securing a substantial amount of funding for island communities. The creativity the projects have shown in identifying and solving issues that will make a practical difference within their communities is exemplary. The projects are very different but will all have a significant impact on supporting the population. I look forward to seeing them develop."