THE Scottish government has opened a public consultation on proposals to reduce the depopulation of Scotland’s islands.

Ministers are consulting on plans to introduce a £5 million island bonds scheme from next year, with special bonds worth up to £50,000 planned to help tackle the islands’ “population challenges.”

The bonds would be given to young people and families to aid them in moving to or remaining on islands that are facing depopulation.

The Scottish government said the bonds would allow people to buy, build or renovate homes or start a business in a bid to help them sustain their existence on the islands.

Islands Secretary Mairi Gougeon said the plan is aimed at addressing key financial barriers for those who want to live in such locations.

“Each of our islands are unique, and this consultation will help us understand some of the population challenges across our islands and make sure that we can properly address them,” she said.