News article 5/12/2013

(Issued 5 December 2013)

The Scottish home building industry today welcomed the Chancellor’s affirmation that more homes need to built and that more needs to be done to achieve this.

Philip Hogg, Chief Executive of industry body Homes for Scotland said:

“Today the Chancellor drew attention to the weakness of housing supply and measures being implemented to address supply-side constraints such as the issuing of £1bn in loans to unblock large house developments. Builders face the same difficulties throughout the UK so we look forward to learning whether this loan facility applies in Scotland or, if not, what consequential funding is to be received north of the border.

“The Statement documents also announce the extension of access to the Public Works Loan Board project rate of up to £400m for local authorities in Scotland and Wales, allowing them to invest in priority project subject to agreement with the devolved administrations on the precise mechanics and conditions.

“With yesterday’s Scottish housing statistics showing continuing falls in output and demonstrating the fragility of any market recovery, we hope that councils will look to take every opportunity to support the delivery of new homes in their areas."

Ends