News article 17/2/2014

(Issued 17 February 2014)

Reflecting the importance of partnership working to help overcome barriers to the delivery of much needed new housing, industry body Homes for Scotland (HFS) has developed a Protocol for Engagement with the country’s water utility provider, demonstrating the highest level of commitment from both organisations and enabling the sector to benefit from a joint approach to tackling matters such as development impact assessments and cost contributions.

Vast resources are invested annually in renewing and upgrading Scotland’s water and drainage infrastructure to support new housing development, and close collaborative working is critical if Scotland’s communities are to attract investment in new homes.

Signing the Protocol alongside Scottish Water Chair Ronnie Mercer, HFS Chairman Jim Preston (right) said:

“Whilst confidence in the housing market may be increasing, output is at its lowest level in 70 years, so we need to do all we can to remove any impediments inhibiting production.

“Following constructive dialogue with Scottish Water, I am therefore delighted to sign this agreement on behalf of Homes for Scotland for the benefit of the sector as a whole.

“This example of an open and mutually advantageous working relationship highlights our commitment to positive engagement with other stakeholder organisations. Quite literally, we look forward to building upon these foundations to ensure Scotland has the homes it so desperately needs.”

Mr Mercer said:

“House building and construction plays an important role in the Scottish economy, with new development requiring connections to Scotland’s essential water and waste water infrastructure.

“In facilitating these new connections, Scottish Water helps support economic development in communities across Scotland, enabling new customers to enjoy the benefits of the high-quality and excellent value services we provide.

“That’s why I’m delighted to sign this collaborative agreement with Homes for Scotland, which demonstrates our shared commitment to working together in the successful planning and delivery of new housing developments.”

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