MOWI backed affordable housing project on Colonsay is “transformational” for community

Council Leader, Councillor Jim Lynch, said 

"There is a clear demand for more housing on Colonsay, and this development will not only encourage more people to stay on the island but will encourage re-population by attracting new families and businesses to the area and support improvements to the local infrastructure."   

The first nine houses are now nearly ready or people to move in according to Dannie Inn, Director of CCDC and will help address current homelessness, in which islanders have been forced to move away or stay in temporary or sub-standard accommodation.  

He said Mowi’s involvement has been crucial in tackling the pressing need for suitable accommodations, which in turn stimulates the local economy and fosters an environment where families can thrive.

Onn said:  
"The new homes will help towards reversing the demographic imbalance here.  The school roll as dwindled to single figures over recent years.  Losing its primay school would rip the heart out of any community.  The fish farm employees also serve dual roles working part-time with vital services such as the local fire brigade and coastguard.  The current housing project will prove to be truly transormational or the resident community and having MOWI on board from the start as industry partner as been key to our success."

Liam McNeill is a Colonsay native, and thanks to his job as a technician for Mowi and the chance to rent one of the new affordable homes  he has been able to stay on the island, unlike many of his friends  who have been forced to move away 

“I have generations of family on Colonsay but I thought I would have to move away for a good career.  The opportunity to work for Mowi and now to live in an affordable home means I am able to stay in the community and build a solid future in the place that I love.”
 

With a commitment to social responsibility and environmental stewardship, Mowi Scotland is proud to join local partnerships to help pave the way or a brighter future for the residents of islands like Colonsay.  Sutainable, well planned development can act as a lieline or communities on the edge,  offering them the chance to thrive while retaining their unique character and way of life. 

 “I’ve worked for Mowi for nearly 10 years and I see the positive ripple effects that the company creates on Colonsay. The company is really committed to giving back to the community and making good things happen. It’s so important to offer ways to keep young people working and thriving in the area that they come from and by offering affordable housing and good job prospects, Mowi helps to make that a reality. I’m proud to work for Mowi and to do my bit for the island.”
 Ali Geddes, Farm Manager

Mowi making a difference… Mowi is proud to support the local communities in which they operate in a variety of ways, including:

For more information about Mowi’s positive impact on local communities, visit www.mowi.com/uk/communiti