The development marks another major milestone in LSHA’s long‑term commitment to delivering sustainable, community‑focused housing on the island.

The new homes respond to a range of local housing needs, comprising two three‑bedroom houses and four two‑bedroom houses, of which two are fully accessible. All properties have been designed to modern efficiency standards, achieving EPC B ratings. Heating and hot water are supplied via Air Source Heat Pumps, and each home incorporates mains‑fed sprinkler systems and PV panels supporting the site’s electric vehicle charging points.

Reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship, the development also includes bird boxes and insect hotels, fully integrated into the design to enhance local biodiversity.

Funded through the Scottish Government’s Rural Housing Fund alongside LSHA development finance, this project represents the culmination of seven years of sustained investment in Raasay. Through both the Deer Park and Cottages Park projects, LSHA is now proud to offer secure, affordable homes to 16 households on the island.

Scottish Government deputy first minister Kate Forbes MSP, who was in attendance, said: “I am delighted with the progress made by Lochalsh and Skye Housing Association to complete phase two of their affordable housing project on Raasay. I know that these homes will provide much-needed accommodation for locals who are valued members of the community and some of whom are in employment on the island.

“My thanks go out to all who have worked so hard to see this project become a reality.”

The construction was delivered by James MacQueen Builders, supported by a dedicated team of consultants. LSHA development manager James Swinnerton expressed his gratitude for their hard work, commitment and professionalism throughout the build.

The North Raasay Sheep Stock Club, as the original landowner, played a key role in enabling the development. Their decision to sell the site made it possible to bring these valuable new community assets to fruition.

Raasay Development Trust has been involved in the project from the outset, purchasing the site from North Raasay Sheep Stock Club, and partnering in the initial plans to develop two sites offering a range of housing tenures. Their work has been central to turning the community’s ambition for more local housing into reality. The site at Cottages Park was later purchased from the Trust when the self‑build plots originally allocated there did not attract interest. This enabled LSHA to take forward the project and manage the construction directly.

The six new homes are already making a significant difference to the community, offering secure, long‑term accommodation to island residents who had previously faced insecure housing arrangements, unsuitable or inaccessible properties, or homes in need of major repair. Some tenants required single‑storey, accessible accommodation due to health conditions that made their former homes uninhabitable, while others had been living in temporary or insecure housing.

The completion and handover of the development was marked at an event on site on 20 February, attended by residents, developers, project staff, Highland Council, the community council, Raasay Development Trust and the North Raasay Sheep Stock Club.

Councillor Christine Gillies said: “The North Raasay Sheep Stock Club worked with the community for the first phase of housing, triggered by the section 75 agreement, and confirmed through a housing need survey nearly 10 years ago. This is the second phase of housing development that followed on the heels of the first 5 houses and the significant list of people needing housing on the island.

“For Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association to have completed this project so efficiently is greatly appreciated by the community. The ability to access warm, secure homes, with supportive friends and family nearby, is so essential to help our community thrive for years to come.”

Ian Young, chair of Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association, said: “The key to success in meeting the financial and logistical challenges in delivering new affordable housing in remoter islands such as Raasay, is collaborating with the community, and this project is no exception. So, I would like to extend my thanks to Raasay Development Trust, the North Raasay Sheep Club, and island residents. I would also like to acknowledge all our partners, and the LSHA team, who helped us deliver these houses.

“I especially want to welcome our new tenants and wish them well for their future. It is great to hear and see for ourselves how pleased they already are of where they now live.”