Westray Housing Project
One of the key areas of challenge on Westray is the availability of housing for both existing locals and those looking to move to the island. The Westray Housing Needs Report 2024 concluded that there is a need for additional housing on Westray. Particularly family housing for young people to grow into, for families already on Westray and those looking to move to the island. The report recommended that WDT look to renovate a two-bedroom property for affordable rent, and explore the potential of developing new build properties, including low cost home ownership models. A copy of the report can be viewed here.
In response to feedback from the Westray community following the 2023 Westray Conference and to this Housing Needs Report, WDT have been working towards identifying and purchasing suitable property to develop a phased affordable housing project. To this end we are delighted to have been awarded a grant of £83,128 from the Scottish Land Fund to purchase Jerusalem, a building with outbuildings and land, on the outskirts of Pierowall.
Orkney Islands Council granted planning on 19th November 2024, and tenders requested for carrying out works.
Project Progress
August 2024 With £83,218 funding from the Scottish Land Fund, Westray Development Trust made an offer for the purchase of Jerusalem.
November 2024 Planning Permission and building warrant achieved. A tender exercise was successful, and Daniel Harcus Construction was selected for the renovation work.
February 2025 Conveyance on the property was complete.
June 2025 Rural Housing Fund awards £150,000 for the renovation work. An application to Orkney Island Council for a £50,000 Housing Grant. Contractor on site.
January 2026 Jerusalem’s extension foundations and floors are in, the new porch is up at the front and with poorer weather work continues inside and any opportunity to continue outside is grabbed.
March 2026- The living Room extension is now up! The large window and patio doors frame the views beautifully. Inside is also taking shape with partition frames up and insulation in.
April 2026 – Partitions are up, first fix of electrics in. Plasterboard is going up, new windows in and old ones being replaced and first fix of plumbing starting soon.
May 2026- Plumbers have been on the Island and have started work. The Board has chosen doors and the kitchen.
June-July 2026 – All windows are now in! Electrics, plaster boarding and plumbing are all continuing. Cladding is being fitted around the new extension that will become the sitting room. Roofing continues with some adaptations in anticipation of solar panels hopefully being approved soon.
August 2026 – Scaffolding is coming down, and you can now see the shape and look of the house in all its splendour!
