Issue - meetings

Update by HIAL

The group gave consideration to a verbal update from Niall Colthart of Highlands and Islands Airport Limited (HIAL) who advised that the airport had seen a rapid growth over the last few years, increasing from 6 to 40 staff.  Mr Colthart outlined the difficulties faced by the airport in retaining staff due to a shortage of housing on the island and advised that on any given day a certain number of staff require to be on site otherwise the airport could not operate.  Mr Colthart also provided information in relation to future plans to expand the airport building and destinations.  He advised that in his view the option to allocate “key worker status” was important in regard to housing allocation and this was something which should be highlighted.    

Discussion was had on temporary accommodation options to provide a short term solution; the need to provide a long term solution not only for the airport but also for other services on the island; the importance of the Community Housing Assessment Toolkit which can be accessed at https://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/housing/housing-strategies-consultations-and-research-0 and the Islay Strategic Housing overview. 

Decision:

The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group agreed to:-

1.    note the information provided; and

2.    feedback the comments and concerns of the Group to the CPP Management Committee for their consideration and action.