A total of 624 responses were received, including 464 from Arran households, encompassing over one in five households across the island. 

Commissioned by the Arran Housing Taskforce and spearheaded by North Ayrshire Council on behalf of its partners, the survey intended to accumulate information on the Island’s present and future housing needs. 

Respondents conveyed support for a variety of housing options including family homes, smaller properties, flats and accommodation that can satisfy the needs of younger people, workers as well as older residents.

The findings reveal that people wish to build their future on the island. Residents who were thinking about moving, conveyed a strong desire to stay within the island, while many people living elsewhere described the island as their preferred choice of place to reside. 

Within several respondent groups, Brodick, Lamlash and Whiting Bay were identified as the most popular locations. 

Over 75% of respondents rated their housing satisfaction as above average, with nearly 25% giving their home the highest possible rating.

Most respondents said they had been living in Arran for several years. 

The findings identified ongoing housing challenges, especially concerning affordable housing supply, but solid community support for practical solutions was also shown. 

Respondents conveyed the positive effect more housing could have in helping to keep young people in the island as well as working-age households.

The findings will now be used by the Arran Housing Taskforce to help drive future housing discussions and support opportunities to secure investment for the island. 

The findings suggests a number of recommendations such as: more promotion for the North Ayrshire Housing Register; use of the report as evidence to support housing funding bids; continuation of housing acquisitions and buy-back programmes; more efforts to bring long-term empty homes back into use; support for adaptations to existing homes; better access to welfare, energy and housing advice and strengthened links between housing and economic development services via the Arran Island Plan.

Councillor Alan Hill, cabinet member for Communities, Housing and Islands, said: “This survey gives us the strongest evidence we have ever had about housing need[s] on Arran and, importantly, it has been shaped directly by the people who live and work on the island. 

“What comes through very clearly is that people love living on Arran and want to build their futures there. 

“The findings show a strong desire for housing that meets the needs of local people, supports businesses, helps young people stay on the island and strengthens communities for the future.”

Hill added: “The report gives the Arran Housing Taskforce and its partners a solid foundation for future planning for housing on the island.”