News / Accommodation shortage
THE SHORTAGE of accommodation in Shetland is set to continue for another ten years, according to a new report by Highlands and Islands Enterprise.
And the shortfall in workers’ accommodation is likely to keep prices for rented accommodation beyond what many families can afford.
The report, which is due to be discussed at a meeting of the community planning partnership, calls on private industry to develop housing and workers’ accommodation in the isles.
Last year, more than 3,000 travelling workers were employed building the Shetland Gas Plant and maintaining the Sullom Voe Terminal.
With the near completion of the gas plant, demand for workers will reduce but it is still estimated that accommodation for between 500 and 1,500 workers will be required until 2024.
HIE said Shetland’s economic performance was held back by the shortage of accommodation.
Over coming years extra labour is needed as a whole raft of energy projects are likely to be developed including the SVT gas sweetening plant, Chevron’s Rosebank development, the new Lerwick power station, oil field decommissioning as well as the Viking Energy wind farm.
Further pressure is likely to come from the Anderson High School project as well as building new housing estates.
HIE area manager for Shetland, Rachel Hunter said: “The shortage of accommodation in Shetland has no doubt held back economic growth and it is clear that there will be continuing pressure even after the completion of the Shetland Gas Plant.
“There will still be opportunities for the private sector in housing development and agencies in Shetland will be looking to work together to consider how we can help.”
The Shetland Worker Accommodation Report 2015 is available to download at www.hie.co.uk/shetland-2015
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 630 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.