McArthur invites housing secretary to visit Orkney at critical juncture for housing development in the islands

Orkney’s MSP Liam McArthur has invited the new Cabinet Secretary for Housing, Mairi McAllan, to visit Orkney to engage with the Council and local partners as plans to deliver major housing development in the islands reach a critical point.  

Speaking at Social Justice portfolio questions Mr McArthur reiterated the urgent need for new housing to meet the growing demand locally. He also highlighted the success of various community housing projects and called for ongoing support for these.  

In response, the Cabinet Secretary confirmed her willingness to discuss the matter further with Mr McArthur and to visit Orkney to meet with him and other stakeholders at a future date.   

Speaking after the exchange, Mr McArthur said:   

“Like much of the country, Orkney faces a housing emergency at present. We desperately need to see an increase in new housing being built over the coming years to meet the growing demand.  

“Plans for how such developments will be delivered are reaching a crucial phase and it’s important the new Housing Secretary understands where and what future support from government will be needed.  

“So I welcome Mairi McAllan’s willingness to visit Orkney later this year to meet with the Council, local developers and other partners to discuss this in more detail. 

“The visit will also provide an opportunity for the Housing Secretary to engage directly with those delivering community housing across our islands. Orkney has been leading the way in taking forward innovative projects, but these will need ongoing support and the Minister needs to commit to continuing to support that success.”