Arran survey considers island’s housing needs

More than 600 responses from residents, businesses and prospective islanders have helped create the most comprehensive picture to date of housing need and demand on Arran.

The Arran Housing Taskforce survey received 624 responses, including 464 from Arran households, representing more than one in five households across the island. The findings provide valuable insight into the housing needs of local communities, businesses and future generations.

The survey, commissioned by the Arran Housing Taskforce and led by North Ayrshire Council on behalf of its partners, aimed to build a detailed understanding of current and future housing requirements across the island.

The report concludes that the survey successfully achieved its aim and has created a robust evidence base to support future housing planning and investment decisions.

Importantly, the findings show that people overwhelmingly want to build their future on Arran. Residents considering a move expressed a strong desire to remain on the island, while many people living elsewhere also identified Arran as their preferred place to live. Brodick, Lamlash and Whiting Bay emerged as the most popular locations across several respondent groups.

The survey also highlighted the strong attachment people have to island life. More than three-quarters of respondents rated their housing satisfaction as above average, with almost a quarter giving their home the highest possible rating.

The vast majority of respondents reported living on Arran for several years, reflecting the island's appeal as a place where people choose to stay and put down roots.

While the research identified continuing housing challenges, particularly around affordable housing supply, it also demonstrated strong community support for practical solutions. Respondents expressed support for a range of housing options including family homes, smaller properties, flats and accommodation that can meet the needs of younger people, workers and older residents.

Respondents highlighted the positive impact additional housing could have in helping retain young people and working-age families, while supporting employers to attract and keep staff.

The report's detailed assessment estimates potential housing need across a range of circumstances. It also shows how planned housing investment, acquisitions and future housing supply could help address this need over the coming years.

The Arran Housing Taskforce will now use the findings to help inform future housing discussions and support opportunities to secure investment for the island. The report also provides a valuable source of evidence for community groups and partner organisations seeking to develop housing solutions that meet local needs.

The report suggests a series of recommendations including:

• Increased promotion of the North Ayrshire Housing Register
• Use of the report as evidence to support housing funding bids
• Continuation of housing acquisitions and buy-back programmes
• Additional work to bring long-term empty homes back into use
• Support for adaptations to existing homes
• Improved access to welfare, energy and housing advice, and
• Strengthened links between housing and economic development services through the Arran Island Plan

Published: 27 July 2026