The 12-home development at Lèana an t-Sruith, Leverburgh, was completed in November 2025 for Hebridean Housing Partnership (HHP) by Alex Murray Construction Limited.

The development consists of a mix of 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom homes, which supports HHP’s plans to build inclusive schemes that cater for the wide range of needs in its communities.

Securing suitable land in rural areas for new build comes with additional challenges, and this one particularly had hurdles at every step in the process. However, through significant efforts from all parties involved, including the Scottish Government, HHP was able to deliver high quality homes in a well-designed site that blends into the local landscape.

“We hope our new tenants settle well into the community and we appreciate the patience of the community during the construction phase,” a spokesperson for HHP said.

First minister John Swinney said: “A warm, safe, affordable home is fundamental to people’s wellbeing and provides the best start in life for our children. Thanks to the work of Hebridean Housing Partnership, the Comhairle and all those involved - with Scottish Government support - 12 new homes will make that a reality for more families here.

“Affordable Housing is a priority for this government, providing £4.1 billion through the affordable housing supply programme over the next four years. At a local level, for developments such as this, £3.192 million has been awarded in recognition of the location and complexities involved in delivering Islands or rural housing.

“I wish new tenants well in these fantastic new homes that will help support future growth and the sustainability of Leverburgh.”

Dena Macleod, chief executive of Hebridean Housing Partnership, said: “We are very pleased to mark the official opening of these 12 new homes at Lèana an t-Sruith. Providing good-quality affordable homes in our island communities is central to HHP’s purpose, and this development will help meet local housing need while supporting the long-term sustainability of Leverburgh and Harris.

“We recognise that rural development can be complex, and we are grateful to the Scottish Government for providing significant funding, to Alex Murray Construction Limited for the high standard of build, our wider project team and the local community and in particular “Donnie Rodel” for helping make this development possible.”

Steven Murray, managing director of Alex Murray Construction Ltd, added: “We are delighted to have been involved in the Leverburgh development and to play our part in delivering a high-quality housing project that will provide lasting benefits for the local community. As a locally based company, we are passionate about investing in our communities, supporting local employment, and delivering construction projects to the best standards.

“The development represents an important investment in Leverburgh, and we are proud to have worked collaboratively with all project partners to ensure it was delivered safely, efficiently and with the latest technologies installed. We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on residents for many years to come.”

Donald Crichton, chair of the Sustainable Development Committee, said: “The Comhairle is delighted to see the completion of twelve new homes for social rent at Lèana an t-Sruith in Leverburgh. We greatly appreciate the efforts of the Scottish Government, Hebridean Housing Partnership (HHP), and Comhairle officers in bringing this development to fruition.

“We would like to extend our thanks to all the local stakeholders who helped make this project a reality. Their contribution is greatly appreciated and has helped deliver much-needed homes for the community.

“Delivering new affordable homes in the current financial climate is increasingly challenging, and the additional complexities associated with rural development can make projects of this nature particularly difficult to progress. However, investment in affordable housing remains essential for sustaining our island and rural communities, providing homes for local people and supporting future growth and economic development, and it is key to work in partnership with our local communities to enable new homes where they are needed.

The Comhairle fully recognises the significant level of investment required to make this development viable and is pleased to have played its part in helping to secure its delivery. We are delighted to see these homes now occupied and making a positive contribution to the Leverburgh community and the wider Harris area.”