SWMID Community Survey: Your Voice on Our Future

Launching SWMID’s Community Action Plan and Engagement Report

South West Mull & Iona Development is pleased to share our new Community Engagement Report and Community Action Plan 2026–2029.

Over the past year, many people have shared their views through surveys, conversations and events. We received 107 responses, with strong representation from people who know the area well: 84% of respondents have lived in or been connected to South West Mull and Iona for more than six years, and 87% were familiar with SWMID’s work.

The message from the community was clear: SWMID should focus on caring for the assets we already hold, making realistic and financially sustainable decisions, and creating more opportunities for people to get involved in practical action.

The new Action Plan responds directly to this feedback. Over the next three years, SWMID will focus on:

strengthening the organisation and improving financial resilience
looking after Tiroran Forest responsibly
developing Aird Fada seaweed activity carefully and with reduced risk
making better use of the Columba Centre and future community hub space
planning for Bendoran in a phased and sustainable way
improving communications, website and digital systems
supporting working groups and wider community participation
staying engaged in housing and energy discussions without taking on unsustainable commitments

At the heart of the plan is a shift in SWMID’s role: from trying to deliver everything directly, towards becoming a stronger facilitator, supporter and enabler of community action. This means protecting community-owned assets, supporting local ideas to grow, and working with others to create long-term benefit.

Progress will be monitored through an Action Plan Dashboard, reviewed at every Board meeting, with updates shared with the community at least twice a year.

This is a shared plan. It is not about doing more — it is about doing the right things well, together.

For questions or more info, contact admin@swmid.co.uk

This work is supported by DTAS

Your Voice Our Future Action Plan Your Voice Our Future Engagement Report