The Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 places a statutory requirement on local authorities to assess the housing needs of all persons in the area, across all housing tenures, and to develop strategies to meet those needs. This requires the production of the Housing Need and Demand Assessment, and Local Housing Strategy. The Housing Strategy sets out the priorities and actions required for housing supply, housing quality, and access to housing. The strategy covers the 5-year period 2024-2029, but also takes a longer view on housing needs. The Orkney Housing Market Partnership which encompasses the Council’s Member Officer Working Group includes a range of stakeholders across Orkney with an interest in the housing system. This group has been developing the Housing Need and Demand Assessment and the draft Local Housing Strategy over the last 12 months.

This consultative draft Local Housing Strategy is provided for public consultation and views are sought on the draft strategic priorities, housing outcomes to be achieved and action plan.