Industry body Homes for Scotland (HFS) has launched its 2017 awards scheme, with entries welcomed across a variety of categories designed to showcase the wide-ranging achievements of a sector that plays a crucial part in our country’s social wellbeing and economic success.

Introduced in 2003 in order to recognise and promote best practice, the awards underpin the organisation’s work.  This year's programme features the following categories:

• Private Development of the Year – large (100+units) (sponsored by NHBC)
• Private Development of the Year – medium (26-99 units) 
• Private Development of the Year – small (up to 25 units) (sponsored by Blackadders LLP)
• Affordable Housing Development of the Year 
• Family Home of the Year
• Supporting Organisation of the Year

Those companies shortlisted for Private Development of the Year will also be put forward for the prestigious title of Home Builder of the Year, with the independent judging panel undertaking interviews with senior management during site visits to recognise the more rounded nature of this award.  In 2017, interviews will also be conducted with those shortlisted for Supporting Organisation of the Year. 

All winners will be announced at the Homes for Scotland Annual Lunch at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre on Friday 12 May 2017 which will be hosted by comedian Tim Vine.

Now entering its 15th year, it is the largest such industry gathering with a record 1100 guests in 2016.

Chairman Jim Mather (pictured) said:

“The HFS awards remain a key aspect of what we do for our members and this year we are trying to take the refreshed and refocused scheme of 2016 to an even higher level.  That means continuing with a format of more stringent judging criteria, which I believe makes our scheme the most robust in the industry and very much worth winning.  

“I therefore strongly encourage member companies to take advantage of this opportunity to showcase the quality and innovation they deliver as their contribution to the thousands of homes of all tenures that Scotland needs.”