Scotland Reaches Crisis Point in New Homes Construction

There has been a sharp decline in the number of new homes in Scotland.

September 9, 2013 (FPRC) -- The number of new homes in Scotland and affordable homes being built has decreased by 14 per cent in the last year. Only 14,629 properties were refurbished or built despite the number of households increasing.

The number households in Scotland is increasing by over 20,000 households per annum and forecasts show that 465,000 new homes will need to be built by 2035 in order to stem a housing shortage. The number of affordable homes in the public sector that were constructed in Scotland also decreased by 13 per cent in 2012 which has further impacted the housing shortage situation. This situation in turn has caused a shortfall of 160,000 new homes that are needed to meet the demand.

House builders based in Scotland are calling for the Scottish Government to take action and stimulate the property market. The Scottish Government has agreed to provide funding of £120 million for a shared equity scheme that will be launched to help householders get onto the property ladder and buy a new home. There are many families who are on waiting lists for an affordable home; however the shortfall of new homes being built will have far reaching economic and social implications.

The Scottish Government funds the majority of affordable housing projects and developments in Scotland the Affordable Housing Supply Programme (AHSP). Housing associations and councils also contribute towards housing in the public sector. Contributions are also made by house builders in the private sector which are agreed through the planning system.

Notes to Editors:
What House? is a leading property website that features thousands of new homes in the UK. It also provides the latest property news, valuation of homes and property and mortgage advice. Over the last 31 years, What House? has held their annual What House? Awards, which are the longest established New Homes awards in the UK recognising UK house builders and developers across 21 categories.

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