Latest statistics from the National House Building Council (NHBC) showing a 26% increase in new homes registered in Scotland for the rolling quarter November 2013 – January 2014 compared with the same period last year highlight positive market growth as well as serving as a warning of the number of barriers to development which need to be addressed, according to the country’s builders.

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

“These latest figures provide real evidence that home builders have stepped up production in order to meet rising demand. However, if we are to fully meet growing need, it is imperative that focus now turns to the major supply-side barriers which continue to hamper growth and output.

“It is only by improving access to development finance, increasing land supply and tackling the shortages which currently exist in skills and material shortages that we will be able to provide the many thousands of homes which are so desperately required across the length and breadth of the country.”

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