SSEN-T is seeking more empty properties on mainland Orkney for use for management staff accommodation, with support from the council’s development and empty homes officer.

The scheme involves SSEN-T financially supporting long-term empty homes to be brought back into use, in exchange for a reduced rental to SSEN-T management staff working on the Orkney-Caithness Transmission Link Project, once the property is brought up to a habitable standard.

The scheme has already seen two empty homes successfully brought back into use, with more on the way.

SSEN-T is now looking to expand the reach of the scheme and to attract more owners of empty homes to participate.

According to the National Records of Scotland, Orkney has the third highest level of vacant dwellings within Scotland with an estimated 6.3% of the housing stock lying empty.

Although it is the responsibility of homeowners to maintain their property and keep it in good order, the council’s development and empty homes officer can provide information and advice to help bring empty homes back into use.

What is SSEN-T looking for:

• Homes on Mainland Orkney which have been empty for at least six months
• Homes with 1-2 bedrooms
• Homes which can be brought back into use no later than 1st February 2026
• Homes requiring no more than £25,000 of upfront investment to bring up to a rentable standard

How the financial support works:

• SSEN-T will provide upfront funding (up to £25,000) to help bring the property back to use
• SSEN-T will recover that cost over time through a reduced rent
• A commercial lease will be offered until Summer 2028
• The rent will be all inclusive, and cover household bills

If you own an eligible property and are interested in bringing it back into use, please contact the council’s development and empty homes officer, Rachael Batty, at rachael.batty@orkney.gov.uk.