A Highland vision: How Albyn Housing Society is building homes and hope across Scotland
In the heart of the Scottish Highlands, where rugged landscapes meet tight-knit communities, one housing association is taking bold steps to tackle a challenge that affects thousands: the urgent need for affordable homes.
Read time: 3 mins Added: 17/09/25
Albyn Housing Society, with a footprint in over 80 Highland communities, has announced a plan to build 600 new affordable homes over the next five years. Backed by a £10 million loan from Bank of Scotland, this isn’t just about building homes, it’s about meeting real housing needs across the Highlands.
Responding to a regional call
The Highland Council’s 2024 Housing Challenge set an ambitious target: 24,000 new homes over the next decade. Albyn answered with a plan rooted in local insight and community collaboration. Construction will soon begin on the first 125 homes from Ullapool to Conon Bridge. These homes will include bungalows, flats, and semi-detached houses. They're thoughtfully designed to blend into the Highland landscape. The designs aim to meet the needs of rural families.
Each home will be built with energy efficiency at its core, featuring solar panels, high-grade insulation, and in some cases, shared ground source heating systems. These features are designed to reduce household costs and improve long-term sustainability.
Investing in what already exists
Albyn’s vision doesn’t stop at new builds. The organisation is also investing in its existing portfolio of 3,850 homes. Upgrades will focus on improving energy performance and comfort. They’ll make sure that current tenants benefit from the same progressive approach.
Smart homes for safer living
Innovation is central to Albyn’s strategy. Its pioneering ‘Fit Homes’ initiative uses discreet, AI-powered sensors to monitor wellbeing - helping vulnerable tenants live independently and safely at home. It’s a solution that not only supports individuals but also eases pressure on rural health and care services.
Delivering what local people need
“We’re here to make sure people across the Highlands have access to good, affordable homes in the communities they live in,” says Andrew Martin, Executive Director at Albyn Housing Society. “Support from Bank of Scotland means we can start right away. Putting plans into action and delivering the kinds of places people want to live.”
Grant Fraser Relationship Director at Bank of ScotlandAlbyn’s work is about more than bricks and mortar. It’s about creating opportunities for people to live well in the places they love. We’re proud to back a project that strengthens communities for the long term.
Why it matters
For housing associations across Scotland, Albyn’s story is a powerful example of what’s possible when local knowledge, strategic funding, and community purpose come together.