Sustainable timber and timber products are to be used in an affordable housing scheme on national forest estate land in Argyll and Bute through the National Forest Land Scheme (NFLS)

And on the Isle of Skye, 22ha of land is being provided to develop a caravan and camping site, an events space, a timber utilisation facility and a community woodland.

Under the NFLS, housing organisations can apply to buy land to create housing where there is a local need.

At Argyll and Bute six affordable homes will be built initially, and a further development of up to 20 affordable homes could follow.

Forestry Commission Scotland will work with the housing association to ensure the maximum appropriate use of timber and timber products, including certified products, locally sourced timber and woodfuel for heating.

“The development particularly interests me as it seeks to use sustainable timber and timber products in house construction,” said Scottish forestry minister Rhona Brankin.

“Communities Scotland are working towards meeting the shortage of low cost housing, and are investing a record £119m this year for affordable homes in rural areas, including over £15m in Argyll and Bute.”

Printer friendly version

Email this article to a friend