3  National Islands Plan

Part 2 of the Act creates a duty on Scottish Ministers to prepare a National Islands Plan. The purpose of the Plan is to set out the main objectives and strategy of the Scottish Government in relation to improving outcomes for island communities. The Act sets out some of the key areas for improving outcomes for island communities.

Outcomes of the Plan include:

• Increase the number of people living on islands.
• Boost the economy in a way that is sustainable.
• Protect and improve the environment.
• Enhancing biosecurity.
• Environmental wellbeing.
• Enhance health and wellbeing.
• Empower island communities to have a say in decisions.
• Improve transport services.
• Improve digital connectivity.
• Reduce fuel poverty.
• Manage the Scottish Crown Estate (land and property) effectively.

Preparation and scrutiny of the Plan

In developing the Plan, Scottish Ministers must consult with:

• Local authorities.
• People who represent island communities (such as Community Council’s).
• Anyone else who might be affected by the Plan.

The Act also requires Scottish Minister’s to consider the unique geography, natural heritage and culture of each island area.

The Plan must be reviewed every five years to see if it needs any changes and Scottish Ministers are required to report each year on how well the Plan is working and what will be done if things aren't improving.

Community Council’s played a key part in the consultation of the 2019 and 2025 National Islands Plan, hosting and contributing at events for local people to have their say on what matters to them in the Plan.

The Scottish Government (2024) have produced an National Islands Plan: Implementation Route Map with details of how they will deliver the priorities over the lifetime of the National Islands Plan. It outlines each commitment made to progress the priorities, the actions that are being taken, and the timescales for this.