A fishing organisation in Scotland is blaming landlords for contributing to a housing crisis which, they say, means locals cannot live in coastal communities.
Salmon Scotland, the trade body for Scotland’s farm-raised sector which sustains 12,500 local jobs and brings in nearly £800m annually, says a housing shortage is holding back growth in remote parts of Scotland where salmon farms are vital to the future of local businesses and communities.
Farming companies already provide accommodation for 130 employees and their families after buying or renting suitable housing, but Salmon Scotland claims many workers simply cannot find homes near where they work.
Salmon Scotland chief executive Tavish Scott wants £10m of the money paid by salmon farmers in fees to the Scottish Government to be ring-fenced for direct investment in rural housing.
Scott claims the situation is exacerbated by the number of empty homes – with the Western Isles reported as having the highest percentage in the country – and properties being snapped up by buy to let landlords.
He says recent research by the Money website shows that in Na h-Eileanan Siar, 13.3 per cent of dwellings are vacant, while the figure is 10.4 per cent in Argyll and Bute, 9.1 per cent in both Orkney and Shetland, and 6.7 per cent in the Highlands.
“A lack of affordable housing is stopping the Highlands and islands from becoming a northern powerhouse. Salmon farming companies are using their own money to provide warm, comfortable, quality accommodation for people who fill essential roles. We also use rentals, B&Bs and hotels which contribute to the local economy all year round” explains Scott.
“But the salmon sector can’t solve this crisis alone – urgent action is needed to address the most pressing issue we face across the Highlands and islands. That’s why we suggest that £10m of the money that salmon farmers pay to the landlord Crown Estate Scotland could be invested in tackling the housing crisis.
“The impact of a lack of affordable housing cannot be underestimated – it means not being able to live near where you work, it separates families and contributes to the depopulation of our island communities. Salmon Scotland will continue to champion our coastal communities and do everything we can to be part of the solution to one of the biggest problems facing the region.”