MOVING TO GIGHA

The Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust receives many enquiries from people interested in moving to Gigha. We would strongly recommend that you visit Gigha and spend some time getting to know the island and its people. If you still like what you see and can see yourself living among our community then get in touch with us.

In line with the Trust's development plan we hope to increase the population on the island and by doing so contribute to the regeneration of the island. Some of the main skills that we are hoping to attract to Gigha are detailed below.

•  Established businesses considering relocation and new businesses, relevant to the Gigha Development Plan, particularly those which may provide direct employment opportunities: Gigha Beer, Smokehouse, Small Scale Creamery. Emphasis on quality, premium / niche market, added value products, examples already present Smashing Glass, International Flower Essence Repertoire

•  Good Quality, Time Served Construction Industry Tradespeople; plumber, joiners, electricians, general builders / bricklayers, ditchers and dykers etc.

•  Registered child minder.

•  Renewable Energy Professionals

•  Other professionals with skills which could be relevant to island needs.

•  Professional writers, musicians, poets, sculptors and artists with proven track records particularly where the artform has Celtic roots or inspirations.

Please note that this is a general indication and the Board will consider any business proposals on individual merit, and there is no guarantee of employment on the island for anyone meeting the abovementioned criteria.

RELOCATING A BUSINESS/STARTING UP A NEW BUSINESS

The Trust is very keen to encourage new business to the island. Since the community buy-out we have seen the establishment of over ten small businesses with further businesses in the process of relocating or establishing themselves.

It is recommended written proposal is submitted for the consideration of the Board of Directors of the Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust. Subject to the Board's consideration, the next step after this would be a meeting with the board, potentially followed by a presentation to members. This procedure is the Trust's standard practice and has been considered a valuable approach for new and relocating businesses that have already decided to relocate here. Further advice and support for new and relocating businesses can also be provided by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), the regional enterprise company, on 01546 602281.

HOUSING

A housing needs survey carried out in 2002 showed that there was a need for additional housing on the island. The Heritage Trust has 39 rented properties, which are mainly rented out to long-term island residents and the availability of the houses is extremely limited. Further information can be obtained from the Trust Office or visit www.gigha.org.uk/housing which explains the process by which the Trust housing stock is managed and the process for applying for Trust housing.

In addition to Trust managed housing, Fyne Homes Housing Association have built 18 new houses for rent. A local letting policy applies, with priority being given to those with a Gigha connection or moving to Gigha to take up employment. Fyne Homes will be directly managing the allocation of their houses and applications forms can be obtained from Fyne Homes, www.fynehomes.org.uk/

In addition to rented accommodation, a number of plots of land available for sale for private build to those who meet the above criteria and wish to move to Gigha to live and work as well as to existing island residents. To be eligible to purchase a plot you must have a confirmed offer of permanent employment on the island, relocating an existing business or setting up a new business on the island.

SCHOOLING

A frequently asked question when people are thinking of moving to Gigha is schooling.  Pre-5 and Primary schoolchildren are well catered for on the island with the superb Gigha Primary School, and then its off to Campbeltown Grammar School or Tarbert Academy (this choice was introduced in 2011).  Pupils can travel daily on the early ferry and return at night, so no overnight stays in Campbeltown as used to be the case.