Harris Development Limited (HDL) is a ‘not-for-profit’ community interest group incorporated in 1994. The organisation is run by a board which is elected annually from and by the residents of Harris. It has a successful track record of taking forward large projects that have added significantly to the community.
The mission statement of HDL is ‘to foster, plan, encourage and assist all types of development, within the geographical area of the Isle of Harris, with a view to promoting an economic, natural and social environment that will result in a more balanced and stable level of population.’
HDL are developing a project to build 6 modular accommodation units in the Tarbert area of Harris to alleviate a serious shortage of housing for key workers who are essential to service the economy and public services in Harris.
The units would offer year-round accommodation for workers that would be energy efficient, sustainable, and cost effective. They would be leased to public and private sector organisations to overcome the accommodation crisis felt on the Island currently.
To further examine the issue and look for possible solutions, Harris Development Limited commissioned a Feasibility Study that was published in November 2019 by Threesixty Architecture and the Torrance Partnership LLP. Community consultation was undertaken as part of the study and the feedback provided was consistent with the view that there is a pronounced problem of a lack of housing for organisations.
“We know this solution will have a transformational impact on the economy of Harris and support the public services we all require”
Angus John Macleod, Harris Development Ltd Treasurer.
The project greatly benefited from support from the North Harris Trust when they decided to become a partner of Harris Development Ltd and agreed to donate their costs of the land as match funding for the project. The expertise of North Harris Trust, especially regarding resumption of the land, will be invaluable.
“It shows what can be achieved when community groups work together for the greater good. We are thankful to the board and staff at NHT for their support and contribution to the project and look forward to working with them as we progress it to completion.”
Kenny Macleod, Harris Development Ltd Chair.
To purchase the sites and develop the project further HDL applied to the Scottish Land Fund for capital and revenue funding. It was announced on December 14th that HDL were successful and received the following funds:
Capital award for purchasing the three sites was £79,790 and revenue funding of £68,000 to cover a two-year post which is a total award of £147,790.
HDL are now able to appoint a Project Officer on a two-year and three-month contract. The Project Officer will be responsible for leading the project through the RIBA stages and building a funding package for the design and capital stage of the project. The salary for the post will be between £26,000 and £30,000 depending on skills and experience. The post is full-time, but HDL would consider applications from part-time, and job share applicants. The post is based in Harris and there would be a requirement for the successful candidate to reside in the local area.
“I am so pleased for Harris Development Ltd as their volunteer board worked tirelessly on this project. Furthermore, I am grateful that the Scottish Land Fund recognised the importance of this project and for all the support from other stakeholders to get the project to this stage.”
David Macdonald, Harris Forum Development Officer.
For any more information on the project or to apply please send a CV and Cover Letter to Kenny Macleod (HDL, Chair) kennymmacleod@hotmail.com by the closing date on December 22nd 2023. It is hoped that interviews will be held as soon as possible after the closing date.
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