Former nurse's house in Cannich will make way for new, affordable homes
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Construction work is under way on two new affordable houses to rent in Cannich.
The project, driven by the Strathglass and Affric Community Company (SACC), will see the derelict former nurse’s house in the village demolished to make way for redevelopment.
The community was keen to see the empty building put to better use and owner NHS Highland agreed to transfer the property to the community firm under the Scottish Government’s community asset transfer scheme.
The land transfer was completed in February, with funding from the Scottish Land Fund.
It is hoped the new housing will help meet local need for high-quality, affordable accommodation.
SACC is receiving project management and development support from the Communities Housing Trust and funding from the Scottish Government’s Rural and Island Housing Fund, Quaker Housing Trust, Highland Council, the SSE Developing Communities Fund, Soirbheas, and the Strathglass Community Fund.
Local contractor MC Builders has been enlisted for the work.
The local doctor’s surgery, previously housed in an extension to the nurse’s house, moved within the renovated SACC-owned Community Hall six years ago.
SACC chairman Alan Hood said: “The new two and three-bedroomed homes will be owned by the community company on behalf of the people of Strathglass.
“The houses will be offered at affordable rent for many generations to come, helping people to stay and contribute to our fantastic community.
“We hope we will be able to retain families in the area, which will help keep the school going.
“It has been a real joint effort, with so many organisations pitching in.”
Ronnie MacRae, the chief executive of Communities Housing Trust, said: “Small, community-led developments such as this can be absolutely crucial to sustaining rural communities.
“A few houses, combined with work opportunities and services, can help keep a community alive.”
Dr Tim Allison, NHS Highland’s public health director, said: “Affordable, good-quality housing is a vital asset for all communities and a significant factor in improvement in health and wellbeing.”
Work is scheduled for completion by the autumn.
