Na h-Eileanan an Iar MP Angus MacNeil has written to Crofting Minister Fergus Ewing MSP to highlight concerns about the Croft House Grant Scheme (CHGS) which many constituents have raised with him.

Mr MacNeil is aware of several cases where constituents who have been refused or do not qualify for support through CHGS.

He is asking Mr Ewing to review the detail of this vital scheme to maximise its positive impact on rural crofting communities across Na h-Eileanan an Iar.

He said: “I am concerned that recent changes to the CHGS has led to a reduction in the number of houses being built in Na h-Eileanan an Iar and that many of my constituents have been refused support.

“Supporting particularly young people to build homes, which are life homes, not only helps to address the pressing issue of depopulation but is good for the construction industry and indeed the future of crofting.

“I look forward to engaging with the Minister on this issue.”